Is there any health risk associated with typhoid vaccines for children?

The results of this study, published in 2021, stated that the vaccine was found to be 81% effective in the first year and 79% effective in the second year. This vaccine, known as the “Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV),” is safe for everyone from 9 months to 16 years of age. Aside from mild fever or slight pain at the injection site, no major side effects or health risks were observed after vaccination.
 

The study found that the typhoid vaccine (TCV) can provide over 85% protection for children in Bangladesh. Typhoid is a disease associated with high fever caused by the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. It can also be caused by Salmonella Paratyphi. These bacteria usually spread through contaminated food and water.
 

Typhoid infection can spread to the body’s circulatory system and internal organs, severely affecting the lungs, heart, brain, or intestines. If not treated on time, typhoid can lead to complications and even death.
 

Typhoid fever remains a major public health issue in developing countries. Its outbreak is more common during floods. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, high fever (103–104°F), headache, diarrhea or constipation, reddish spots on the skin, extreme fatigue, and intense coughing.
 

In Bangladesh, the first-ever nationwide typhoid vaccination campaign began and will run throughout the month until November 13. Nearly five crore children aged between 9 months and under 15 years will receive a free single-dose vaccine. This is the first such campaign for typhoid vaccination in the country.
 

The vaccine can be administered to everyone from 9 months to 16 years of age and is safe for all. Apart from mild fever or slight pain at the injection site, there are no other side effects.

Writer: Dr. Ayesha Akhter
Deputy Director, 250-bed TB Hospital.