If you’re traveling to a region where typhoid fever is common, deciding which typhoid vaccine to get—oral or injectable—can seem very unclear.
Both vaccines are effective, but they work in slightly different ways and offer varying levels of convenience, protection, and side effects.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the oral and injectable typhoid vaccines – so you can make an informed choice that best suits your travel plans.
Intro to Typhoid Fever – And Your 2 Options:
Before we dive into the comparison, let’s get a quick overview of what typhoid fever is and why it’s such a concern for travelers.
Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It’s usually spread through contaminated food and water, which is why it’s more prevalent in regions with poor sanitation.
Symptoms of typhoid fever include:
- Prolonged fever
- Stomach pain
- Headaches
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
In severe cases, it can lead to complications like intestinal perforation, which can be life-threatening. This is why getting vaccinated before traveling to high-risk areas is so critical.
1) The Oral Typhoid Vaccine
How It Works
The oral typhoid vaccine comes in the form of capsules that contain live attenuated (weakened) Salmonella Typhi bacteria.
When you take these capsules, they stimulate your immune system to build up defenses against the bacteria.
This type of vaccine works by introducing the weakened bacteria into your digestive system, where your body learns to recognize and fight it off.
Administration and Dosage
Taking the oral typhoid vaccine is a bit different from getting a shot. It’s taken as a series of four capsules, with one capsule taken every other day (Day 1, Day 3, Day 5, and Day 7).
Each capsule should be taken with a cold or lukewarm drink about an hour before a meal. Make sure to follow the schedule exactly as directed to ensure the vaccine works properly.
Duration of Protection
One of the perks of the oral typhoid vaccine is that it typically provides protection for up to 5 years.
After this period, a booster dose might be recommended if you continue to travel to areas where typhoid fever is a risk. That means once you’ve completed the course, you’re covered for quite a while.
Side Effects
The side effects associated with the oral typhoid vaccine are generally mild. Some people might experience temporary gastrointestinal issues like nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea.
Others might have a low-grade fever. These side effects usually go away on their own and aren’t typically severe enough to interfere with your travel plans.
2) The Injectable Typhoid Vaccine
How It Works
The injectable typhoid vaccine, on the other hand, contains inactivated (killed) Salmonella Typhi bacteria. It works by stimulating your immune system to recognize and fight off the bacteria without introducing a live version into your body. The process is similar to how most other vaccines work.
Administration and Dosage
Unlike the oral vaccine, the injectable version is administered as a single intramuscular injection. This requires a doctor’s visit to a local clinic in your area, although scheduling & availability can be difficult at times.
Duration of Protection
The injectable typhoid vaccine provides protection for about two years, which is shorter than the oral vaccine’s five-year coverage. If you plan on traveling frequently to areas where typhoid is a risk, you’ll need to get a booster shot more often to stay protected.
Side Effects
Side effects from the injectable typhoid vaccine are also generally mild. The most common issues are soreness or redness at the injection site, which typically subsides after a day or two. Some people might experience mild fever, headaches, or fatigue as well.
Oral vs. Injectable: Key Differences
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the key differences between the oral and injectable typhoid vaccines.
1. Convenience
If convenience is your top priority, the oral vaccine might prove to be a better option since you don’t need to schedule an appointment or go anywhere.
Plus, you can get prescribed online – without in-person doctor visits or pharmacy pickups. Runway Health lets you connect with a doctor online, with free 3-5 days shipping to your door.
On the other hand, the injection is a “one-and-done” option, but many travelers dislike the amount of time and devotion that goes towards finding availability, scheduling a time, going to a clinic and waiting.
2. Duration of Protection
The oral vaccine comes out ahead here, offering protection for up to 5 years, compared to just 2 years with the injectable vaccine. If you’re someone who travels frequently, especially to typhoid-prone areas, the longer protection might be a significant advantage.
3. Side Effects
Both vaccines have mild side effects – with the oral vaccine’s side effects (mild nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea) typically resolving shortly after, and the infection resulting in a sore arm for a day or two.
Depending on your tolerance for these types of issues, you might prefer one over the other.
4. Effectiveness
Both vaccines are effective at preventing typhoid fever, and both are endorsed by health organizations worldwide. As mentioned above, the biggest difference is the duration of effectiveness (5 years for oral, 2 years for infection).
What Do Most Travelers Prefer?
Travelers often share their experiences with these vaccines – and while personal anecdotes aren’t scientific evidence, they can still offer useful perspectives.
Many travelers prefer the oral vaccine – because they enjoy the convenience & flexibility it offers. Taking the capsules at home can be a stress-free experience compared to scheduling & attending a clinic visit. The only caveat is sticking to the dosing schedule.
On the other hand, travelers who choose the injectable vaccine might point to getting it over with in one go. But if you’re someone who dislikes needles, setting up an appointment, and spending time at the doctor’s office – the oral option might feel like a better choice.
Special Considerations for Certain Travelers
1. Children
The oral typhoid vaccine is generally recommended for individuals aged six years and older, making it suitable for children who are old enough to swallow capsules. For younger children who might struggle with this, the injectable vaccine is often the better option.
2. Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
The safety of the oral typhoid vaccine during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been fully established, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your physician during the consultation.
The injectable vaccine is often considered safer in these cases, but again, consulting with a doctor is crucial.
3. Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems
If you have a weakened immune system, the oral vaccine might not be recommended because it contains live bacteria, even though they are weakened. The injectable vaccine, which uses inactivated bacteria, might be a safer option. Your physician will help you decide the best choice for your exact situation.
Do You Still Need Other Precautions?
Even after getting vaccinated, it’s crucial to continue practicing good hygiene and food safety measures while traveling. The vaccine offers significant protection, but no vaccine is 100% effective. So, what should you keep in mind?
- Drink only bottled or boiled water
- Avoid raw or undercooked foods
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating
By combining the vaccine with these precautions, you’ll maximize your protection against typhoid fever.
So, Which Should You Choose – Oral or Injection?
It really depends on your personal preferences and travel plans.
If you prefer convenience and don’t mind swallowing a few capsules, the oral vaccine is likely your best option. It offers longer protection and allows you to complete the course at your own pace.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you get vaccinated before traveling to a region where typhoid fever is a risk. Both vaccines are effective and can provide the protection you need to enjoy your travels safely. Just weigh the pros and cons of each, and choose the one that fits best with your needs and lifestyle. Safe travels!
