Typhoid is a disease caused by bacteria called Salmonella typhi, Salmonella paratyphi A & Salmonella paratyphi B. Salmonella typhi is most common cause and all available vaccines are protect from Salmonella typhi only.
This bacteria spread from contaminated food or water. Especially uncooked products or milk products.
Symptoms of Typhoid
Typhoid causes a high fever, fatigue, weakness, stomach pains, vomits, loose motions, headache, loss of appetite, and sometimes a rash. Many patients also develop cough due to bronchitis after a week of disease.
Typhoid Vaccines
There are TWO types of Typhoid vaccines available in Indian Markets.
- Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) is given as a single dose at age of 6 months or later. Its efficacy is 60-70% and its immunity is long lasting so boosters are not needed.
- Typhoid Vi Polysaccharide vaccine. – This is the old type of vaccine which can be given after the age of 2 years. It is efficacy is 40-60% and its immunity weakens after 2-3 years and so boosters are needed every 3 years.
TCV is a preferable choice as it can give an early coverage right form the age of 6 months and its efficacy is better and boosters are not needed.
Dr Shacchee Baweja & Dr Vipul Baweja 