Prevention of typhoid fever: The power of WASH and vaccination

Typhoid is a bacterial infection that is caused by Salmonella typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water and is a major public health concern, especially in areas with poor sanitation. While improving water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) can significantly reduce the risk of infections, vaccinations provide an added layer of protection, lowering the chances of contracting typhoid. In this article, we will discuss the causes and prevention of typhoid.

Primarily, typhoid spreads through contaminated food and water or indirect contact with infected individuals. In India, poor sanitation, open defecation and inadequate garbage and sewage disposal can further increase the risk of typhoid.

Following the WASH protocol

WASH stands for water, sanitation and hygiene. Ensuring good standards of hygiene and sanitation is one of the most important steps in preventing typhoid.

Water

Access to safe drinking water is crucial in preventing typhoid transmission, as contaminated water is one of the main sources of infection. Make sure to drink only filtered, boiled or bottled water. Avoid untreated water, juices, or any drinks that contain ice made from untreated water to reduce the risk of typhoid.

Sanitation

Since typhoid spreads through faeces, proper sanitation infrastructure is important in stopping its spread. Open defaecation and poorly managed sewage systems may allow bacteria to contaminate the water supply. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water whenever using the washroom.

Hygiene

Good hygiene practices are a frontline defence against any infectious disease, including typhoid. Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the washroom or if you touch food (whether it is eating, cooking, or serving food). If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

Importance of safe eating and drinking habits

What you eat and drink can play a major role in preventing typhoid. Practising a few safe eating and drinking habits regularly can keep you protected from contracting typhoid. Here are a few simple things you can do:

Drink only filtered or boiled water
Avoid consuming food that is prepared in unhygienic conditions
Eat only freshly cooked, hot food
If you are eating street food, make sure it is freshly cooked, prepared and served hot
Avoid beverages with ice unless you are sure it is made with treated water
Opt for fruits and vegetables that can be washed thoroughly

Vaccination: A critical shield against typhoid

Despite improved hygiene practices, typhoid remains a risk in regions with limited clean water and sanitation. This can pose a significant risk to public health. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against the disease.

In India, two types of typhoid fever vaccines are available:

Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV), which can be given from the age of 6 months onwards up to 65 years of age, and
Polysaccharide Vaccine (Vi-PS), which can be given from the age of 2 years and requires revaccination every 3 years.

Among the two, TCV is considered better since it gives a stronger and longer lasting protection against typhoid disease. TCV is also recommended to use by the WHO.

Typhoid treatment heavily relies on antibiotics, but the misuse or overuse of these drugs has led to the rise of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) Salmonella typhi. These drug-resistant strains make infections harder to treat, increasing the risk of complications and prolonged illness. Vaccination helps reduce antibiotic dependency by preventing infections in the first place, thereby playing a crucial role in controlling AMR.

Conclusion

Combining good hygiene practices with vaccination is the most effective way to prevent typhoid. While improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) can significantly reduce the risk of infection, it will take a long time for its universal implementation. Whereas, typhoid vaccination is easy to implement, as we already have a strong childhood and adult vaccination programme. It also provides long-term immunity and protection against antimicrobial-resistant typhoid. Simple habits like washing hands, drinking safe water and eating hygienic food can go a long way in protecting individuals from the disease. However, given the challenges of maintaining perfect sanitation everywhere, getting vaccinated is vital to safeguard yourself and your loved ones against typhoid.

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Disclaimer: A public awareness initiative by Bharat Biotech International Limited. This information is for general awareness only and does not constitute medical advice. The doctors, medical facilities and graphics shown are for illustrative purposes only. For any medical advice or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition, consult your doctor.