How do you take Typhoid Vi Polysaccharide Vaccine?

It is given as a single injection (0.5 mL) into the muscle of your upper arm by a healthcare worker. One dose is enough to give you protection. A booster (repeat) dose is recommended every 3 years if you are still at risk of getting typhoid. In Nigeria, brands like Typbar Vi are commonly available at hospitals, clinics, and vaccination centres.

What are the side effects of Typhoid Vi Polysaccharide Vaccine?

Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, mild fever or feeling unwell for a day or two, headache or body aches

Who should not take Typhoid Vi Polysaccharide Vaccine?

People who have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of typhoid Vi vaccine or any of its ingredients, children under 2 years old, and anyone currently having a high fever or serious illness (wait until you recover before getting vaccinated).

Prescription

Vaccine (Typhoid prevention)

Typhoid Vi Polysaccharide Vaccine

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Typhoid Vi Polysaccharide Vaccine is an injection that helps your body build protection (immunity) against typhoid fever by using a small piece of the outer coating of the typhoid bacteria, so your immune system learns to fight it without making you sick.

How it works

Activates humoral and cell-mediated immunity by presenting Salmonella typhi Vi polysaccharide antigen to B and T lymphocytes, stimulating production of protective antibodies and memory cells against typhoid infection.

What is it used for?

Prevention of typhoid fever

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Vaccines & Immunisation Typhoid

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Always get this vaccine from a registered hospital, clinic, or pharmacy that stores it properly in a fridge, never from roadside sellers or unregistered sources. Remember that this vaccine does not give 100% protection, so you should still drink clean water, wash your hands, and eat properly cooked food to reduce your risk of typhoid. Keep your vaccination card safe so you know when your next booster is due.

Common Side Effects

Pain
redness
or swelling at the injection site
mild fever or feeling unwell for a day or two
headache or body aches

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction with difficulty breathing
swelling of the face or throat
or widespread rash appearing within minutes to hours after the injection. High fever that does not go down. If you notice any of these
go to the hospital immediately.

Drug Interactions

If you are taking drugs that weaken your immune system (such as steroids like prednisolone or cancer treatment drugs), the vaccine may not work as well, so inform your doctor. There are no known major food or alcohol interactions, but it is wise to avoid alcohol on the day of vaccination to reduce the chance of feeling unwell.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Consult your doctor before taking this vaccine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it should only be given if the benefit clearly outweighs any potential risk.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of typhoid Vi vaccine or any of its ingredients
children under 2 years old
and anyone currently having a high fever or serious illness (wait until you recover before getting vaccinated).

How to Store

Store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze, as freezing destroys the vaccine. Protect from direct sunlight and heat, which is especially important in Nigeria's hot climate. Keep out of reach of children. If the cold chain was broken (vaccine got warm or was frozen), do not use it.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.