Typhoid vs. Yellow Fever Vaccines: Do You Need Both?

Yes, typhoid and yellow fever are two different diseases that require different vaccines.

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. It is spread through contaminated food or water. Typhoid fever can cause high fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The typhoid vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, which means that it contains a weakened form of the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. The vaccine is given orally in a series of four doses.

Yellow fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitos. It is found in tropical regions of Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. Yellow fever can cause fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. The yellow fever vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine, which means that it contains a weakened form of the yellow fever virus. The vaccine is given as a single injection.

The typhoid and yellow fever vaccines are both very effective. They are recommended for travelers who are visiting areas where these diseases are common.