When preparing for international travel, typhoid is one of the diseases that often raises questions and concerns. Typhoid fever is caused by salmonella typhi, a bacterium that spreads through contaminated food and water. While vaccination and simple precautions can help prevent infection, many myths still surround the disease and the ways to protect against it. At Sudbury Court Pharmacy, our London travel clinic provides clear, professional advice to ensure patients are protected before they travel. To help you separate fact from fiction, here are some of the most common myths about typhoid, explained.

Myth 1: Typhoid Only Affects People Living Abroad

Fact: Typhoid is not limited to local residents in high-risk countries. Travellers are just as vulnerable, often more so, because they may not be used to the food, water, and hygiene standards in their destination. The highest risk areas include South Asia, parts of Africa, and South America, where sanitation may be limited. Tourists visiting for even a short holiday can be at risk if they consume contaminated water or food. This means that vaccination is not just for people living abroad but also for anyone planning to travel to these regions.

Myth 2: Good Hygiene Alone Is Enough To Prevent Typhoid

Fact: While careful hygiene is important, it is not enough on its own to guarantee protection against salmonella typhi. Even travellers who are cautious can still be exposed to contaminated food or water without realising it. In many countries, ice, fresh salads, unpeeled fruit, or drinks made with untreated water may all pose risks. Typhoid vaccination provides an extra layer of protection, reducing the chances of infection. Combining good hygiene with vaccination is the most effective approach.

Myth 3: Typhoid Is Not A Serious Illness

Fact: Typhoid is a serious condition that can cause life-threatening complications if untreated. Symptoms include prolonged fever, stomach pain, diarrhoea or constipation, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, typhoid can lead to internal bleeding or perforation of the intestines. Treatment requires antibiotics, but resistance to these medicines is becoming more common in some regions. Preventing infection through vaccination before travel is a far safer option than relying on treatment after catching the disease.

Myth 4: One Typhoid Vaccine Lasts A Lifetime

Fact: Typhoid vaccines do not provide lifetime protection. Injectable vaccines usually last around three years, while oral vaccine courses may last for about five years. After this period, a booster dose is needed for continued protection. This is why it is important to check your vaccination history well before you travel. At Sudbury Court Pharmacy, our London travel clinic can review your records and advise if a booster is required.

Myth 5: Typhoid Only Spreads Through Food

Fact: While contaminated food and water are the most common sources, typhoid can also spread through close contact with an infected person. Poor sanitation and limited access to clean water increase the risk of the bacteria being passed from one person to another. This is particularly important for travellers visiting areas where hygiene standards may differ from those in the UK. Being aware of all routes of transmission helps you take better precautions.

Myth 6: If I Get Sick Abroad, I Can Just Take Antibiotics

Fact: Relying on treatment abroad is not always straightforward. Access to healthcare may be limited in rural or remote areas, and counterfeit or poor-quality medicines are more common in some parts of the world. In addition, antibiotic resistance in salmonella typhi is a growing global problem, making the infection harder to treat. Vaccination before you travel is a safer, more reliable way to protect yourself than depending on treatment options once abroad.

Myth 7: Typhoid Is Rare, So Vaccination Is Not Necessary

Fact: Typhoid may be rare in the UK, but it remains a major health issue in many parts of the world. The World Health Organization estimates millions of cases each year globally. Travellers who are unvaccinated remain at risk when visiting affected countries. Even if your trip is short or focused on urban areas, the potential for exposure still exists. Vaccination is a simple and effective precaution that reduces your risk.

Myth 8: Children Do Not Need The Typhoid Vaccine

Fact: Children are also at risk of typhoid infection and should be vaccinated if travelling to high-risk areas. In fact, children may be more vulnerable because they are less cautious about what they eat or drink. They may also have weaker immune systems, making it harder for them to fight off infection. Protecting the whole family with vaccination is an important part of preparing for travel.

Understand Your Risk and Get Protected

Typhoid fever is caused by salmonella typhi and remains a significant risk for travellers visiting many parts of the world. Myths such as typhoid only affecting locals, hygiene being enough protection, or the vaccine lasting a lifetime can give a false sense of security. The facts are clear: typhoid is a serious illness, it spreads easily, and vaccination offers the best protection.

At Sudbury Court Pharmacy, our London travel clinic provides typhoid vaccination and expert travel health advice tailored to your journey. If you are planning a trip abroad, reach out to us today or book your appointment to make sure you are fully protected before you travel.

This blog was written on behalf of Sudbury Court Pharmacy and Travel Clinic by Pharmacy Mentor.