What Is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It is typically spread through contaminated food or water and can cause a serious illness characterized by a fever that lasts several days, weakness, headache, abdominal (stomach) pain, and other digestive symptoms.
Why Typhoid Fever Prevention Matters
Typhoid fever remains common in many parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and other regions where access to clean water and sanitation may be limited. Most cases of typhoid fever reported in Canada are associated with international travel.
Anyone travelling to an area where typhoid fever is more common may be at risk, however the likelihood of exposure depends on your destination, the length and purpose of your trip, and the types of food and water you consume while travelling. Travellers visiting friends and relatives often have a higher risk because they may stay for longer periods and eat more meals within local communities, but typhoid fever can affect any traveller.
Symptoms usually develop one to three weeks after exposure and may include persistent fever, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Without appropriate treatment, typhoid fever can lead to serious complications requiring hospitalization. Early medical assessment is important if symptoms develop during or after travel.
Vaccination can reduce the risk of typhoid fever, but no vaccine provides complete protection. Careful food and water precautions remain an important part of prevention, even if you have been vaccinated. Drinking safe water, eating food that is freshly prepared and served hot, avoiding raw or undercooked foods, and practising good hand hygiene can all help lower your risk of infection.
Two types of typhoid vaccine are available: an oral vaccine and an injectable vaccine. The most appropriate option depends on factors such as your destination, age, medical history, timing before departure, and personal preferences. A travel consultation helps determine which vaccine, if any, is best suited to your individual needs.
Preparing before you leave gives you the opportunity to understand your individual level of risk and the steps you can take to reduce it. Combining vaccination with safe food and water practices provides the best protection against typhoid fever while travelling.
How Our Pharmacists Can Help
During your travel consultation, our pharmacist will assess your risk of typhoid fever and discuss the vaccine option that is most appropriate for your trip. We can then provide access to typhoid vaccination when appropriate, explain the differences between the available vaccine options, and offer practical advice on food and water precautions to help reduce your risk during your travels.
You do not need a referral or separate doctor’s appointment before seeing us. We’ll review your travel needs, answer your questions, and help coordinate any additional care or referral that may be needed before your trip.
Book Your Travel Consultation Today
If you are travelling to a destination where typhoid fever may be a concern, planning ahead can help ensure you receive the protection that’s appropriate for your trip.
Contact Wellness Point Pharmacy to book your travel health appointment online or by phone, or visit us in person to arrange an appointment with one of our pharmacists. Our pharmacist will help you understand your risk of typhoid fever and recommend practical strategies to help reduce your risk before and during your travels.
