You may carefully plan your flights, accommodation and travel insurance, but it only takes one unsafe meal or contaminated drink to disrupt an entire trip. Typhoid fever is not just a minor stomach bug. It is a serious bacterial infection that can develop gradually and become severe if ignored.
For travellers visiting parts of South Asia, Africa and other higher-risk regions, understanding typhoid fever symptoms and the causes of typhoid fever is an important part of travel preparation. In this blog, we explain how the infection spreads, what warning signs to look out for, the available typhoid treatment options, and practical steps, including the typhoid vaccine for travel, to help you stay protected abroad.
What is typhoid fever, and how does it spread?
Typhoid fever is caused by a bacterium called Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water, usually in areas where sanitation and clean water systems are limited.
You can catch typhoid by:
- Drinking untreated or contaminated water.
- Eating food handled by someone who has the infection.
- Consuming raw fruit and vegetables that have not been washed safely.
Unlike some travel illnesses that cause short-lived stomach upset, typhoid can become serious if not treated promptly. This is why awareness and prevention are so important for travellers.
What are the common typhoid fever symptoms?
Typhoid fever symptoms often develop gradually over one to two weeks after exposure. Early signs can feel similar to the flu or a general infection, which sometimes delays diagnosis.
Early signs to look out for
In the first stage, symptoms may include:
- A persistent high temperature.
- Headache.
- Tiredness and weakness.
- Stomach pain.
- Constipation or diarrhoea.
Some people also notice a dry cough or loss of appetite.
When can typhoid become serious?
If untreated, symptoms can worsen. You may experience:
- Ongoing high fever.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Confusion or drowsiness.
- A rash of small pink spots on the chest or abdomen.
Typhoid can lead to complications affecting the intestines or bloodstream. If you feel unwell during or after travel, especially with a high temperature, it is important to seek urgent medical assessment.
What are the main causes of typhoid fever in travellers?
The causes of typhoid fever are closely linked to hygiene and sanitation. The infection is more common in areas where:
- Clean drinking water is not always available.
- Food hygiene standards vary.
- Sewage systems are inadequate.
Travellers are at risk because they may be exposed to bacteria that their body has not encountered before. Even experienced travellers can be affected if precautions are not taken.
Visiting friends and relatives abroad can also increase risk, particularly if staying in local homes rather than tourist accommodation.
How can you reduce your risk before and during travel?
Prevention is always better than cure. A combination of vaccination and careful food and water choices offers the best protection.
Typhoid vaccine for travel
The typhoid vaccine for travel is recommended for people visiting higher-risk destinations. It can be given as an injection or as oral capsules, depending on suitability.
While the vaccine does not provide one hundred per cent protection, it significantly reduces the risk of severe infection. It is usually given at least two weeks before travel, so planning ahead is important.
If you are searching for a travel clinic in Slough or a travel vaccination clinic in Burnham, it is worth booking early to allow enough time for protection to develop.
Practical typhoid prevention tips
Alongside vaccination, simple habits can lower your risk:
- Drink bottled or properly treated water.
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it is made from safe water.
- Eat food that is freshly cooked and served hot.
- Peel fruit yourself rather than eating it pre-cut.
- Wash hands regularly with soap and safe water.
These typhoid prevention tips may seem basic, but they are highly effective when followed consistently.
What are the typhoid treatment options if you become ill?
Typhoid is treated with specific antibiotics, prescribed after proper assessment. Early diagnosis improves recovery and reduces the chance of complications.
Typhoid treatment options will depend on where the infection was acquired and local patterns of antibiotic resistance. Most people recover fully with appropriate treatment, but rest and hydration are also essential.
If you develop a high temperature during or after travel, especially within a few weeks of returning home, inform our pharmacists about your recent trip. This helps guide testing and treatment decisions quickly.
How can you prepare safely before travelling abroad?
Preparing for travel health should feel straightforward and supportive. Our pharmacists provide up-to-date advice based on current UK guidance and your individual travel plans.
At Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common, we offer personalised consultations, destination-specific vaccine advice, and practical guidance to help you travel safely. If you live in or near Slough or Burnham,book an appointment at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of typhoid fever?
Early signs include a gradually rising fever, headache, stomach pain, weakness and constipation or diarrhoea. These typically appear 1 to 2 weeks after exposure.
Can I still get typhoid after vaccination?
Yes. The typhoid vaccine reduces your risk but does not completely prevent infection, so food and water hygiene remain important.
How soon before travel should I get a typhoid vaccine?
It is best to have the typhoid vaccine at least two weeks before departure so your immune system has time to build protection.
Where is typhoid fever most common for travellers?
Typhoid is most common in regions with poor sanitation and water treatment, especially in South Asia, parts of Africa and some areas of Central and South America.
How long do typhoid fever symptoms last?
With appropriate treatment, symptoms often improve within a week, but full recovery can take longer; without treatment, symptoms may persist, and complications can develop.
Can typhoid be spread from person to person?
People with typhoid can spread bacteria in their faeces, so good hygiene and sanitation are essential to prevent transmission.