Reviewed by a GPhC-registered Pharmacist at Newdays Pharmacy Quick Answer: Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water. It is common across South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia. Typhoid vaccination is strongly recommended for most travellers to these regions and is available at Newdays Pharmacy without a GP referral. Two vaccine options are available: an injectable single-dose vaccine (Typherix, Typhim Vi) and an oral capsule course (Vivotif).
What Is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi. It is transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the faeces or urine of an infected person. In its classic presentation, typhoid causes a sustained high fever, headache, malaise, loss of appetite, and a characteristic rose-coloured rash. Without appropriate antibiotic treatment, serious complications including intestinal perforation, haemorrhage, and septicaemia can occur. Globally, typhoid causes an estimated 11 to 21 million cases annually and 128,000 to 161,000 deaths, predominantly in South Asia, though it is endemic across sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Americas.Where Is Typhoid a Risk for UK Travellers?
The risk of typhoid is highest in:- Sub-Saharan Africa: Including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, and many other countries across the region
- Southeast Asia: Including parts of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines
- Central and South America: Including Peru, Bolivia, and parts of Central America
Typhoid Vaccines Available in the UK
Injectable Typhoid Vaccine (Typherix or Typhim Vi)
The injectable typhoid vaccine contains purified Vi polysaccharide antigen. It is given as a single injection and provides protection for approximately three years.- One injection, effective for approximately three years
- Can be given alongside other travel vaccines
- Suitable from age two years
- Available as a combined Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccine (Hepatyrix, ViATIM), which is convenient and cost-effective for travellers needing both
Oral Typhoid Vaccine (Vivotif)
Vivotif is a live attenuated oral typhoid vaccine taken as capsules. It is an alternative for people who prefer not to have an injection.- Course: Three capsules taken on alternate days (days one, three, and five)
- Each capsule must be taken on an empty stomach with cold or lukewarm water, at least one hour before eating
- Provides protection for approximately one to three years
- Not suitable for: Children under five, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, or those taking antibiotics concurrently
- Must not be taken with antibiotics or antimalarial medicines containing proguanil (Malarone) at the same time, as these can reduce effectiveness
Which Typhoid Vaccine Is Better: Injectable or Oral?
Both vaccines are effective and provide similar levels of protection (approximately 50 to 80 percent). The injectable vaccine is more convenient (one injection versus three capsules on alternate days) and has no dietary restrictions. The oral vaccine is preferred by some patients who dislike injections but requires more careful adherence to the dosing schedule. Your pharmacist will discuss the options with you.Does the Typhoid Vaccine Provide Complete Protection?
No vaccine provides 100 percent protection against typhoid. Food and water hygiene practices remain critically important even after vaccination. Eat only freshly prepared hot food, avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruit washed in tap water, drink only bottled or treated water, and wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Vaccination reduces the severity of illness if infection occurs as well as reducing the likelihood of contracting it.Typhoid Vaccination at Newdays Pharmacy in Windsor, Twyford, and Reading
Newdays Pharmacy provides typhoid vaccination (both injectable and oral), combined Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccine, and full travel health consultations at our branches in Eton (Windsor) and Twyford. Our GPhC-registered travel health pharmacists will advise on the most appropriate option for your itinerary. Book Now: Book Your Typhoid Vaccination Appointment Clinical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment or medication. Information is accurate as of the date of publication and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist. Newdays Pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).Frequently Asked Questions
Typhoid vaccine is not available free on the NHS for travel purposes. It is a private travel health service. The NHS does provide it free for specific occupational groups, such as laboratory staff working with Salmonella typhi.
Yes. A combined Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccine (Hepatyrix or ViATIM) is available as a single injection, which is more convenient than two separate injections. This is often recommended as both vaccines are typically needed for the same destinations.
Ideally at least two weeks before travel to allow immunity to develop. The oral course (Vivotif) must be completed at least one week before potential exposure. If travelling at short notice, vaccination is still worthwhile even if only a few days before departure, as it will provide some protection.