Typhoid Vaccine: Keeping Your Family Safe

With the recent outbreak of typhoid in Malaysia, it is more important than ever to make sure that you and your family are vaccinated against the disease. In Malaysia, typhoid fever is most commonly found in rural areas. However, it can also be found in cities, especially among people who have traveled to other countries where typhoid is more common. The good news is that typhoid fever can be prevented by getting vaccinated against the disease.

How is typhoid transmitted?

Typhoid is a life-threatening illness caused by the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. Typhoid can be spread through contact with the faeces of an infected person, often through contaminated food or water. Typhoid can also be spread through close contact with an infected person, such as in a household.

Symptoms of typhoid fever

The symptoms of typhoid fever can be mild to severe, varying from person to person. Some people may not have any symptoms at all. The most common symptoms of typhoid disease include:

• Fever
  

• Headache 

• Muscle aches

• Diarrhea

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain

Types of typhoid vaccines in Malaysia

The typhoid vaccine is available in two forms: an oral pill and an injectable shot. The injectable typhoid vaccine is given as a single injection and provides protection for three years, while the oral vaccine is a pill that is taken by mouth and provides protection for five years. The typhoid conjugate vaccine is made from a combination of live bacteria and a protein called CRM197. It can be given to both children and adults.

Which typhoid vaccine should you get?

The ideal typhoid vaccine for you depends on your age, health status, and how soon you need to be protected from typhoid fever. All three types of typhoid vaccines are available in Malaysia, but the typhoid conjugate vaccine is the most effective. In the case of febrile or acute disease, vaccination must be delayed.

Where to get typhoid vaccines?

The typhoid vaccine is available at most travel clinics and is also given as part of routine immunisations for children in Malaysia. It is also available at most pharmacies and clinics in Malaysia.

How much does a typhoid vaccine cost in Malaysia?

The typhoid vaccine is available for free at all government health clinics. For private healthcare providers, the typhoid vaccine usually costs RM60-70 for the injectable form and RM50-60 for the pill form.

What are the possible adverse reactions after vaccination?

Like any medication, the typhoid vaccine has the potential to cause side effects. The most common side effects of the typhoid vaccine are:

• Soreness at the injection site

• Fever

• Headache

• Muscle aches

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain

These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days. However, some people may experience more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions or seizures. It is important to talk to your doctor before getting a typhoid vaccine if you have any medical conditions.

What is a typhoid carrier?

A typhoid carrier is someone who has been infected with the Salmonella Typhi bacteria but does not have any symptoms of the disease. These people can unknowingly spread the disease to others. You can become a carrier by being infected with the bacteria and not getting treatment.

There is no definitive test to determine if you are a typhoid carrier. A blood or stool test may be done to see if you have been infected with the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. However, these tests may not be accurate in detecting all carriers.

How do typhoid infections affect food handling in Malaysia?

It is important to remember that to prevent typhoid fever, one must be vaccinated against the disease, but it is also important to practice safe food handling. As mentioned earlier, Salmonella Typhi bacteria can be spread through contaminated food or water. To avoid contracting the disease, you should take precautions when handling food. Here are some tips for safe food handling:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after preparing food

• Avoid touching your face while preparing food

• Make sure all utensils and surfaces are clean and disinfected

• Cook food properly

• Do not eat raw or undercooked food

Typhoid fever can be deadly. However, typhoid fever is preventable through vaccination. To ensure that your family is safe from typhoid fever, get vaccinated today. Consult a doctor to get the typhoid vaccination so that you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this deadly disease.

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