Typhoid Vaccination

Vaccination schedule

Three typhoid vaccines are recommended by The World Health Organization (WHO): injectable typhoid conjugate vaccine, injectable unconjugated polysaccharide vaccine (e.g. Typhim Vi), and oral live attenuated Ty21a vaccine.

In Hong Kong, only the injectable unconjugated polysaccharide vaccine, Typhim Vi, is currently registered. This vaccine can be given to persons two years of age and older. The vaccine should be given at least two weeks prior to departure. Revaccination should be considered every three years for those at continuous risk of infection.

Recommendations

Vaccination should be considered for those going to typhoid endemic areas, in particular long-stay travellers and those visiting rural areas where food and beverage choices may be limited.

Adverse reactions

The most common adverse reactions of injectable unconjugated polysaccharide typhoid vaccine are injection site pain, redness, and swelling, which usually resolve within 48 hours of vaccination.

Contraindications

Typhoid vaccination should not be administered to persons with a history of a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine component or following a prior dose of the vaccine.