TYPHOID VACCINE – ORAL TYPHOID VACCINE
Type of vaccine
- A live attenuated vaccine derived from Ty21, a mutant strain developed by genetic manipulation.
- Strict Cold Chain (storage temperature) has to be maintained.
- The efficacy varies from 50 to 70%.
- Is available as enteric-coated capsule form.
- Acts in a manner similar to the typhoid bacteria but instead of causing the illness, it gives immunity against it.
Dosage & schedule
- Given after 6 years of age. 3 doses of Capsule on alternate days (1, 3 and 5) provides immunity for almost 3 years.
- Booster is required every 3 years.
Special precautions
- The capsule has to be taken 1 hour before meal, with cold or lukewarm milk or water.
- Sulfonamide – an antibiotic should not be taken concomitantly with the vaccine.
- Intake of antibiotics has to be avoided 1 week before and after the vaccine.
Side effects
Fever, vomiting and abdominal pain occurs rarely.
Contraindications
- History of allergic or severe reaction following the previous dose.
- Acute febrile illness (illness with high grade fever).
- Acute gastro-intestinal infection.
- Immunodeficiency – either by birth or acquired.