Typhoid Fever

Typhoid Fever is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water and it is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. Typhoid Fever is an acute illness infecting about 16 million people worldwide of which 600,000 will perish. Typhoid Fever can be fatal in up to 10% of reported cases. There has been an increase in the number of drug-resistant strains of Salmonella typhi since 1989. Resistance to all three first-line antibiotics has been detected in Pakistan, India, China and the Arabian Gulf.

Unfortunately, drug resistance is spreading worldwide due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate control of infections and extensive international travel, trade and population movements. Humans are the sole hosts of the bacteria which is feces-shed from 6 weeks to 3 months after injection. Most common symptoms include fever, anorexia, abdominal discomfort and headaches.

The Typhoid Fever vaccine is recommended for international travelers especially if they will be visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Source: CDC Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): Typhoid Vaccine (5/19/04)

So, if you are asking yourself, "what shots do I need?" click here to locate the location nearest you in Miami-Dade County, or call 305-642-9889.

You can also click here to learn more about diseases and vaccines that may impact your trip.