Typhus abdominalis, or typhoid fever or typhoid for short, is caused by a specific subgroup of Salmonella (Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica Serovar Typhi). This is not the normal salmonella disease common in Europe (Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica Serovar Enteritidis). The disease is transmitted through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include a high fever, headache, dry cough, slow pulse, abdominal pain, and there may be a pale, small-spotted rash. Diarrhea and constipation may alternate. The disease can be treated with antibiotics, but in rare cases can be fatal.
In which countries does typhoid abdominalis occur?
Typhoid fever is common worldwide, but is most common in Africa, Asia, and South America. Highly endemic countries are India and adjacent regions.
When and how often should I be vaccinated?
Vaccination is recommended during prolonged stays in endemic areas and when food hygiene is poor. The oral vaccination (Vivotif) consists of 3 capsules taken on days 1, 3 and 5. Protection is provided 10 days after the last capsule is taken and lasts 1-3 years. A 3-year protection is achieved only if one stays in endemic areas during these 3 years. As an alternative to the oral vaccination, one can also receive a normal vaccination (Typhim) with an injection into the upper arm. The level of protection of the injected vaccination is the same as the oral vaccination, however as a booster vaccination it shows less efficacy compared to the oral vaccination.
Preis: 57-63 CHF pro Dosis plus consultation and injection fee
What else should I know about the typhoid vaccine?
The injectable vaccination (Typhim) is not licensed in Switzerland, which is why we import it from Germany. We offer this vaccination because the oral vaccine is not recommended for those who are immunocompromised and sometimes the oral vaccination cannot always be logistically given as the pills have to be refrigerated. Health insurance does not cover the cost of Typhim and the vaccine must be paid for out-of-pocket.
More information is available on the website of the FOPH and at HealthyTravel.
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