What is Typhoid Fever? Symptoms, Causes & Why Vaccination Matters

March 27, 2025

Typhoid fever is a serious, potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects the intestines and bloodstream. It remains prevalent in many developing regions and is a common concern for international travellers.

What Causes Typhoid Fever?

Typhoid fever is caused by a bacterium called Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (commonly referred to as Salmonella typhi). It spreads through:

Drinking water or eating food contaminated with human waste
Poor sanitation and hygiene
Close contact with an infected person (especially in shared households)

Once inside the body, the bacteria travel through the digestive system, enter the bloodstream, and begin to multiply, causing widespread infection.

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How Common is Typhoid Fever?

Globally, typhoid fever affects 11 to 21 million people each year, with over 100,000 deaths reported annually. It’s most common in regions with limited access to clean water and modern sewage systems.

In the UK, typhoid fever is rare, but cases still occur — almost always in travellers returning from high-risk countries.

Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Symptoms usually develop 1 to 2 weeks after exposure and may last several weeks if untreated. Common symptoms include:

High fever (up to 40°C)
Weakness and fatigue
Stomach pain or discomfort
Headaches
Constipation or diarrhoea
Dry cough
Loss of appetite
Enlarged spleen or liver
Skin rash with flat, rose-coloured spots (in some cases)
Mental confusion or delirium (in severe cases)

If left untreated, complications can include intestinal perforation, sepsis, or severe bleeding — all of which require emergency hospital treatment.

How Typhoid is Diagnosed

Typhoid fever is typically diagnosed using:

Blood cultures
Stool or urine samples
Bone marrow cultures (in complex cases)

Early diagnosis is essential to start appropriate antibiotic treatment and prevent complications.

How is Typhoid Fever Treated?

Treatment usually involves a 7–14 day course of antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, or ceftriaxone (depending on the resistance pattern). Most patients recover fully with prompt treatment.

However, antibiotic-resistant strains are becoming more common, especially in South Asia, making prevention through vaccination even more important.

Who is at Risk of Typhoid Fever?

You may be at increased risk if you:

Travel to countries with poor sanitation or water hygiene
Eat street food or raw produce while abroad
Stay in areas with limited access to clean water
Work in healthcare, aid, or development roles in endemic regions

High-risk regions include:

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
Nepal, Sri Lanka
Parts of Africa
South and Central America
Southeast Asia

Children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable.

Prevention: How to Protect Yourself Against Typhoid

1. Vaccination

Getting the typhoid vaccine is the most effective way to reduce your risk. There are two main types:

Injectable vaccine (Typhim Vi) – single dose, lasts up to 3 years
Oral vaccine (not commonly used in the UK)

2. Safe Food and Water Habits

Drink bottled or boiled water
Avoid ice in drinks
Eat only well-cooked food
Avoid raw fruit and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself
Wash hands regularly with soap or use alcohol gel

Typhoid Vaccine at Our Travel Clinic

At OnlineChemist’s Travel Clinic in Great Yarmouth, we provide the Typhim Vi injectable vaccine, suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and above. Our clinic offers:

Private consultations
Same-day appointments
Certificates for travel documentation
Vaccination for individuals and families

We serve patients in Great Yarmouth, Gorleston, Lowestoft, Norwich, Beccles, Acle, Hemsby, and the wider Norfolk and Suffolk area.

→ Book your typhoid vaccination appointment now

When Should You Get Vaccinated?

The typhoid vaccine should be given at least 2 weeks before travel to allow your body time to build immunity. If you’re travelling soon, contact us as early as possible — we often have same-day appointments available.

Final Thoughts

While typhoid fever is rare in the UK, it remains a real risk for travellers. The infection can be severe, but it is entirely preventable with a simple vaccine and basic food and water precautions.

If you’re planning to travel to a high-risk region, make sure you’re protected.