Are you planning to travel abroad soon? Or are you planning to visit an area where typhoid fever is common? So today we will talk about this disease called typhoid and a special oral vaccine that can protect you from it. Knowing how to use it correctly and what to be careful about is very important for your safety.
What is this oral typhoid vaccine?
Simply put, this is a vaccine that prevents typhoid fever. But it's not like the shot we usually get, it comes in capsules that you take by mouth. This vaccine contains live, weakened typhoid bacteria. When these enter the body, our immune system learns to fight against these bacteria. Then, if the real typhoid germ ever enters the body, our body is ready to fight it.
This vaccine is generally recommended for those traveling to countries where typhoid is common, such as South Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
What are the things you need to tell the doctor before getting this vaccine?
This is very important. Before you get this vaccine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Your situation | Why should you tell the doctor? |
|---|---|
| An active infection with fever | Because the body is already fighting an infection, it may not respond well to the vaccine. |
| Conditions such as cancer, HIV, or AIDS | Because these weaken the immune system, giving a live vaccine can be risky. |
| Other immune system problems | This vaccine is not suitable for people with weakened immune systems. |
| Undergoing radiation therapy | This also weakens the immune system, so it is important to inform the doctor. |
| Stomach or intestinal problems | These conditions can affect the body's ability to absorb the vaccine. |
| Allergies to other vaccines, medications, or yeast | This is important to know if you are allergic to anything in the vaccine. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | The doctor needs this information to consider the possible impact on the child in these cases. |
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this vaccine, it must be taken as directed.
- Drink this with a glass of water .
- The most important thing is, you should take this on an empty stomach. That means take it at least an hour before a meal. Never take it with food.
- Do not chew, crush, or break this capsule. Swallow it whole.
- There are usually four doses of this vaccine. These should be taken every two days . (For example: on day 1, day 3, day 5, day 7).
- You should complete all four doses at least a week before your trip . This will give the vaccine time to work.
- There are times when this can be given to children over 6 years old. Talk to your pediatrician about this and get advice.
When you are given the vaccine, you will be given a Vaccine Information Statement. Read it carefully, as the information in it may change frequently.
What if the dose of medication is increased or one is missed?
If you think you may have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
It is very important to take all four doses of this medicine on the scheduled days. If you miss a dose, call your doctor immediately for advice.
Other medicines that may interact with this vaccine
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins and herbs, as some medications may interact with this vaccine.
| Medications that should definitely not be taken | |
|---|---|
| Some sulfa antibiotics, such as Sulfamethoxazole (SMZ), can make the vaccine less effective. | |
| Other medications that may cause side effects (inform your doctor) | |
| Medicine for malaria | Types of steroids (Prednisone, Cortisone) |
| Immune-suppressing medications (e.g., after organ transplants) | Treatment for cancer |
| Other vaccines | Some medications for arthritis |
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects in some people. But don't worry. Most of these are minor.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Side effects that usually do not require medical advice (but tell your doctor if they persist) | |
| Stomach ache | Headache |
| Diarrhea | Vomiting or nausea |
| A slight fever | |
Remember, even if you get this vaccine, you may not be 100% protected. Therefore, it is very important to follow good hygiene practices, such as drinking clean water and eating safe foods , and washing your hands frequently, when you travel.
How do you keep this safe?
Because this is a live vaccine, proper storage is essential.
- Be sure to store it in the refrigerator. The temperature should be between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius (2°C - 8°C).
- Never store it in the freezer, as this will destroy the vaccine.
- Keep the vaccine in the original packaging.
- Do not leave it where children can get hold of it.
This information sheet is only a summary. If you have any further questions about this, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Take this vaccine exactly as your doctor tells you, on the scheduled dates. Complete all four doses.
- Always drink only water on an empty stomach, at least an hour before meals.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Keep the vaccine in the fridge. Do not keep it in the freezer.
- Even if you get vaccinated, it is very important to take care of clean food and water when traveling.
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