Typhoid Fever
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to Fact SheetsWhat is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid Fever is a bacterial disease, caused by the germ, Salmonella typhi.
The first symptoms of Typhoid Fever may include headache, fever, loss of
appetite, fatigue, vomiting and constipation. More serious symptoms include
rose coloured spots on the body, slowing of the heart rate, enlarged spleen,
and problems with the lymphatic system.
How is Typhoid Fever spread?
You can get Typhoid Fever if you eat food or drink beverages that have been
handled by a person who is shedding Salmonella typhi. The germ is shed
through feces and urine of infected people.
Other sources of Salmonella typhi include shellfish taken from
sewage-contaminated beds, raw fruits and vegetables fertilized by human
waste, and contaminated milk and milk products. Flies can carry the disease,
and make the problem worse.
Typhoid Fever Vaccines:
There are 2 vaccines available to protect against Typhoid Fever. One is a
single dose injection, which provides protection for about 3 years. The
other is a live, oral dose, which provides protection for about 7 years.
The Injectable Typhoid Vaccine
- This vaccine is given to people 2 years of age and
older
- The vaccine must be given at least 2 weeks before
travel
- A single dose of vaccine is recommended
- A booster dose is recommended every 3 years
Who should NOT get the injectable vaccine?
- Anyone who is allergic to any component of the
vaccine
- Anyone who has had a severe reaction to this vaccine,
in the past
- Anyone with a fever over 38.5 C (101 F)
- Anyone who is pregnant or breast feeding should speak
to their health care provider prior to receiving the vaccine
Are there any side effects of the injectable Typhoid
Fever vaccine?
Although side effects are rare, the most common side effects of the vaccine
are:
- Redness, soreness, and swelling at the injection site
- Other reactions may include fever, headache, nausea,
dizziness, fatigue, joint pain, and rashes and should subside in 1 to 2
days
- Allergic reactions like hives, wheezing, swelling of
the face and mouth are extremely rare, however if these symptoms occur,
seek medical attention immediately and let the Health Unit know about it
The Live Oral Typhoid Vaccine
- Consists of 4 capsules (one capsule every other day)
- Capsules must be refrigerated at all times
- Capsules must be taken on an empty stomach 1hour
before eating
- Capsules should be taken with cold or lukewarm drink
- Protection against Typhoid Fever is achieved 7days
after last capsule is taken
- A booster dose is recommended every 7 years
Who should NOT get the live oral Typhoid vaccine?
- Anyone under the age of 6 years old
- Anyone allergic to any component of the vaccine
- Anyone with an acute gastrointestinal condition, or
inflammatory bowel disease
- Anyone who is immunosuppressed
- Anyone who is pregnant or breast feeding should speak
to their health care provider prior to receiving the vaccine
- Special considerations should be taken for those
taking antimalarial medications, the oral cholera vaccine, or
antibiotics
Are there any side effects of the live oral Typhoid
vaccine?
Possible side effects from this vaccine may include temporary mild abdominal
discomfort, nausea, vomiting, rash, or hives. With any vaccine or drug,
there is an extremely remote chance that an allergic or more serious
reaction could occur, however, if you do have a severe allergic reaction,
seek medical attention immediately and let the Health Unit know about it. |
Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
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