TYPHIM Vi® may offer immunization against typhoid fever

TYPHIM Vi® is a vaccine used to help prevent typhoid fever in travellers 2 years of age or older visiting S. typhi bacteria endemic or epidemic areas, or where sanitary conditions may be doubtful, and where they may be exposed to contaminated food and water sources.

Learn more about typhoid fever

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Travellers are at the greatest risk of typhoid fever

Typhoid fever has a number of risk areas internationally: Asia, South Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

World map with the high risk area and moderate risk area for typhoid fever highlighted

How is typhoid fever spread?

Travellers to these popular destinations are at risk of contracting typhoid fever through exposure to the Salmonella typhi bacteria in contaminated food and drink. This is why it is important for you to be mindful of what you eat and drink, and by including vaccination in your travel plans. Whether you are planning on backpacking, visiting friends and relatives, or relaxing at 5-star resorts, the risk of exposure is still there.

Two travellers sightseeing

How can I protect myself?

Getting vaccinated with TYPHIM Vi® can lower the possibility of getting typhoid fever. The vaccination entails a solitary intramuscular injection of 0.5 mL. It is recommended that you obtain the vaccine at least 2 weeks before your scheduled departure.

Although immunization is a significant step in avoiding typhoid fever, it is not guaranteed protection. It is recommended that travellers take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the food and water they consume. You should consult your healthcare provider to explore ways to shield yourself from illnesses caused by consuming contaminated food and water, which includes ice cubes and water used for personal hygiene such as brushing your teeth.

Who should be vaccinated?

Individuals 2 years and older travelling to a typhoid fever risk area, particularly when prolonged exposure is anticipated, should consider receiving TYPHIM Vi®.

Do not vaccinate in:

  • Children under 2 years of age
  • Anyone with a known allergy to the vaccine or any of its components
Person with band aid on shoulder

Possible side effects to know about

Serious side effects are rare.

Some people who receive TYPHIM Vi® may have mild side effects such as pain or tenderness at the injection site, associated with redness and swelling.

Other possible side effects may include fever, headache, a general feeling of weakness and discomfort, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side effects usually go away within a few days.

This is not a complete list of side effects. Your healthcare professional can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects that may occur after receiving TYPHIM Vi®.

Will I ever need another TYPHIM Vi® vaccination?

A repeat dose is recommended after 3 years if you plan to travel again to an area where the disease exists.

Ask your healthcare practitioner about the TYPHIM Vi® vaccine

    TYPHIM Vi® is a vaccine used to prevent typhoid fever. This vaccine may be given to persons 2 years of age and older caused by bacteria called Salmonella typhi. TYPHIM Vi® causes the body to produce its own natural protection against typhoid fever. After you receive the vaccine, your body begins to make substances called antibodies. Antibodies help the body to fight disease. If a vaccinated person comes into contact with the germ that causes this disease, the body is usually ready to destroy it. The majority of persons who are vaccinated with TYPHIM Vi® will produce enough antibodies to provide protection against typhoid fever by 2 weeks after the first vaccination. Individuals travelling to typhoid fever risk areas should receive the vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to departure in order to have an adequate protective response. However, as with all vaccines, 100% protection cannot be guaranteed. The body does not develop long-term protection against typhoid fever. Hence repeat vaccination 2-3 years after previous vaccination is recommended for individuals at continued risk of exposure to typhoid fever causing bacteria. Serious side effects are rare.

    Some people who receive TYPHIM Vi® may have mild side effects such as pain or tenderness at the injection site, associated with redness and swelling. Other possible side effects commonly reported may include fever, headache, general feeling of weakness and discomfort, and muscle pain. These side effects usually go away within a few days. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if TYPHIM Vi® is right for you or a family member. For more information, visit www.sanofi.ca.