Indications
Typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) is used to protect against typhoid fever, a serious infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi that spreads through contaminated food and water. It is approved for children from 6 months of age and for adults, and is recommended in countries such as Bangladesh where typhoid is common, as well as for travellers.
How It Works
The vaccine contains a purified sugar coating (Vi polysaccharide) from the typhoid germ joined to a carrier protein. Joining it to a protein helps the immune system, even in young children, make strong and long-lasting antibodies, so the body can fight off typhoid bacteria if exposed later.
Dosage and Administration
It is given as an injection into the muscle by a doctor, nurse or trained vaccinator, usually as a single dose, following the schedule set by your doctor or the national immunisation programme. A booster may be advised later in some cases.
Interactions
It can usually be given at the same visit as other childhood vaccines, such as the measles-rubella vaccine, at a different injection site. Medicines that weaken the immune system (for example high-dose steroids, chemotherapy) may reduce the response. It is not affected by antibiotics because it does not contain live bacteria.
Contraindications
- Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any ingredient
- Postpone in a person with a moderate or severe illness with high fever (a minor cold is not a reason to delay)
Side Effects
Common effects include pain, redness or swelling where the injection was given, mild fever, headache, tiredness, muscle aches and irritability in young children. These usually settle within 1 to 2 days.
Get urgent medical help if there is swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread hives, fainting or very high fever after vaccination. Vaccination centres keep people under observation for about 30 minutes for this reason.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Information in pregnancy is limited. It is not a live vaccine and is given in pregnancy only when the doctor judges the benefit outweighs any possible risk. It can be given to breastfeeding women.
Precautions and Warnings
The vaccine does not protect against paratyphoid fever or other causes of food poisoning, and no vaccine protects everyone; continue safe food and water habits and hand washing. Tell the vaccinator about bleeding disorders, blood thinners or a weak immune system.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely as it is given by a health professional. An extra dose is not expected to cause serious harm, though local reactions may be stronger.
Therapeutic Class
Vaccine (bacterial, conjugate, inactivated).
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, do not freeze, protect from light. Kept by the pharmacy or vaccination centre as directed on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.