Typhoid fever is a serious illness caused by the bacterium *Salmonella enterica* serotype Typhi. Vaccination is an important preventive measure, especially in areas where typhoid is common.
### Types of Typhoid Vaccines:
1. **Inactivated (Killed) Vaccine**:
- **Administration**: Injected.
- **Dosage**: Typically given as a single dose.
- **Efficacy**: Protects about 50-80% of recipients.
2. **Live Attenuated Vaccine**:
- **Administration**: Oral.
- **Dosage**: Typically taken in a series of capsules.
- **Efficacy**: Provides better protection (around 60-90%).
### Recommendations:
- **Who Should Get Vaccinated**:
- Travelers to areas where typhoid fever is common.
- Individuals living in areas with a high incidence of the disease.
- Certain healthcare workers or those in close contact with infected individuals.
- **When to Get Vaccinated**:
- Ideally at least 1-2 weeks before travel to allow time for immunity to develop.
### Side Effects:
Common side effects may include:
- Pain or swelling at the injection site (for the injected vaccine)
- Fever, nausea, or gastrointestinal upset (for the oral vaccine)
### Duration of Protection:
- Immunity from the injected vaccine typically lasts about 2 years, while the oral vaccine may provide protection for about 5 years.
