What is typhoid fever?
Typhoid fever is an infectious intestinal disease caused by Salmonella Typhi bacteria. After infection, it takes one to two weeks for a person to become ill. The most common symptoms are fever, abdominal pain, headache, decreased appetite, red spots (mainly on the skin of the abdomen), constipation and, in some cases, diarrhoea. In severe cases, intestinal ulceration(s) with bleeding or intestinal perforation may occur.
How do you get typhoid fever and in which countries is it prevalent?
Typhoid fever occurs worldwide, but especially in parts of Africa and Asia. The disease occurs mainly in areas where sanitation is poor. Someone carrying the bacteria can pass it on by, for example, not washing their hands after going to the toilet (the bacteria are found in urine, faeces and blood of an infected person). This person can then contaminate other surfaces, such as door handles or food and drinks. People who touch these contaminated surfaces or consume contaminated food and drink can get sick.
What can you do to prevent typhoid fever?
If you are travelling to a country where typhoid fever is prevalent, you can protect yourself with a vaccination. Other advice includes eating only food that is cooked and served hot, drinking only from factory sealed (unopened) bottles or other containers and not to use ice cubes. Based on your destination and health, we will be happy to give you personalised advice.
What protection does the typhoid fever vaccination offer?
The typhoid fever vaccination consists of one shot and provides protection for three years. The vaccination protects 60-70% against the serious complications of typhoid fever and is available from the age of 2 years.
What are the side effects of a typhoid fever vaccination?
The typhoid fever vaccination may cause mild side effects. For example, the injection site may be painful or swollen. Some people have mild flu symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea after the vaccination.
How much will a typhoid fever vaccination cost?
If you have supplementary insurance, the cost of a typhoid fever vaccination is covered by your health insurance in most cases. For more information, please visit our rates page.