Introduction
Typhoid vaccine side effects are usually mild and short-lived. After the injection, the most common reactions are pain, redness or swelling where the vaccine was given, together with headache, muscle aches, tiredness or a mild fever. The oral vaccine can cause temporary stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, fever or a rash.
The exact reaction depends on the vaccine used and the individual receiving it. For the commonly used injectable vaccine, most reactions begin within the first three days and settle on their own within one to three days. Oral-vaccine reactions are also usually mild, but the timing can overlap with the three-capsule course.
Serious allergic reactions can occur after any vaccine, but they are not expected common reactions. Call 999 if there is difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, collapse, or another rapidly developing severe allergic reaction.
If you are deciding whether vaccination is appropriate for an upcoming trip, TravelJabs4U can help you review the typhoid vaccine cost and booking guide or find a travel clinic near you for an individual travel-health assessment.
Typhoid vaccine side effects at a glance
The table below separates the reactions that are commonly reported after the injectable and oral vaccines from warning symptoms that need prompt assessment.
| Vaccine type | Commonly reported reactions | Typical course | Get medical help if |
| Injectable typhoid vaccine | Pain, redness, swelling or firmness at the injection site; headache; muscle aches; tiredness or feeling unwell; sometimes fever | Often starts within 3 days and settles within 1–3 days | Symptoms are severe, worsening, unusually persistent, or there are signs of a serious allergic reaction |
| Oral typhoid vaccine | Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, fever or rash | Usually mild and temporary during or soon after the capsule course | There is persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, dehydration, severe abdominal pain, a significant allergic reaction, or another concerning symptom |
| Either vaccine | Temporary mild symptoms can occur as the immune system responds | Most people can continue normal activities if they feel well enough | Breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, collapse or rapidly worsening symptoms occur |
Side-effect lists vary between products, so the patient information leaflet supplied with the vaccine remains the most specific source for the product you receive.
Is the typhoid vaccine safe?
For most people who are clinically suitable, typhoid vaccines have an established safety profile and the expected reactions are temporary. The injectable vaccine is non-live. The oral vaccine is a live, weakened vaccine and has additional suitability restrictions, including for some people with weakened immune systems.
No vaccine is completely free from the possibility of side effects, and no typhoid vaccine provides complete protection against infection. A travel-health consultation weighs the likely risk from the journey against vaccine suitability, previous reactions, age, pregnancy, medical conditions and medicines.
A mild sore arm, headache or short period of tiredness does not normally mean that the vaccine has harmed you. These symptoms are among the recognised reactions that can occur after vaccination.
For more detail about the capsule option, read the oral typhoid vaccine guide. The choice between injection and capsules should be based on clinical suitability and timing, not only on which side-effect list appears shorter.
Common typhoid injection side effects
Typhoid injection side effects are mainly local reactions in the vaccinated arm and short-lived general symptoms. The following descriptions are based on reactions reported with a commonly used Vi polysaccharide vaccine; the exact frequency can vary by product and age group.
Pain, redness, swelling or firmness in the arm
Pain at the injection site is the most frequently reported reaction. The area may also look red, feel warm, become mildly swollen or feel firm to the touch. Some people describe a heavy or bruised sensation when lifting the arm.
These reactions usually improve without treatment. Gentle arm movement can help prevent stiffness. A cool, clean compress may be soothing, but avoid placing ice directly on the skin.
Headache, muscle aches and tiredness
Headache and muscle aches are recognised typhoid jab side effects. Some people feel tired, weak or generally unwell for a short time. Rest, fluids and a lighter schedule may be useful if you feel below your usual level of energy.
The presence or absence of these symptoms does not tell you how well the vaccine is working. Some people have no noticeable reaction and still develop an immune response.
Mild fever or feeling shivery
A mild fever can occur after the injection. Monitor how you feel, drink enough fluid and avoid overheating. If the temperature is high, persists, worsens, or is accompanied by symptoms that concern you, seek advice rather than assuming it is only a vaccine reaction.
A persistent fever during or after international travel should always be taken seriously because it may be caused by an infection rather than the vaccine.
How long do typhoid injection side effects last?
With the commonly used injectable vaccine, most reported reactions appear within three days of vaccination and resolve spontaneously within one to three days after they begin. A sore arm can occasionally take a little longer to settle.
Contact the clinic, a pharmacist, GP or NHS 111 if symptoms are not following the expected pattern, are getting worse instead of better, or are interfering significantly with eating, drinking, sleeping or normal activity.
Oral typhoid vaccine side effects
Oral typhoid vaccine side effects are different because the vaccine is taken as a three-capsule course rather than as an injection. The commonly reported reactions include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, fever and rash.
Most reactions are mild. However, vomiting or diarrhoea can also affect whether the course has been taken successfully, particularly if a capsule cannot be kept down or if there is an acute stomach illness. Contact the supplying clinic or pharmacist for advice rather than repeating a capsule or changing the schedule yourself.
The oral vaccine is live and is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used by people with certain immune deficiencies, and it can be affected by antibiotics and the timing of some antimalarial medicines. Always provide a complete medicine and health history before it is supplied.
Swallow each capsule whole with cold or lukewarm water and follow the timing instructions supplied with the product. Do not chew the capsules or take extra doses to compensate for a mistake without professional advice.
You can review the full capsule schedule, suitability considerations and current pricing in the oral typhoid vaccine guide.
Oral vs injection side effects: what is the difference?
Both vaccine types can cause headache or fever, but the pattern of other reactions differs. The injection is more likely to cause a sore, red or swollen arm, whereas the oral course is more likely to cause temporary gastrointestinal symptoms.
| Side-effect question | Injectable vaccine | Oral vaccine |
| Most characteristic reaction | Pain, redness, swelling or firmness at the injection site | Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea |
| Other recognised reactions | Headache, muscle aches, tiredness, feeling unwell and sometimes fever | Headache, fever and rash |
| How it is given | Single injection for primary vaccination | Three capsules taken on alternate days |
| Live vaccine? | No | Yes – a live, weakened vaccine |
| Suitability considerations | Assessment includes age, allergies, pregnancy, illness and previous vaccine reactions | Additional consideration is needed for immune suppression, pregnancy, acute gastrointestinal illness, antibiotics and some antimalarial timing |
| If symptoms are severe | Seek medical advice; call 999 for signs of a serious allergic reaction | Seek medical advice; call 999 for signs of a serious allergic reaction |
The best option is the vaccine that is appropriate for your medical circumstances and can be completed in time for travel. Side-effect profiles are only one part of that decision.
How long do typhoid vaccine side effects last?
Most typhoid vaccine side effects settle within a few days. For the injectable vaccine, the product information for a commonly used UK vaccine states that most reactions appear within three days and resolve within one to three days after onset.
For the oral vaccine, symptoms such as stomach discomfort, nausea, diarrhoea, headache or fever may occur during or soon after the capsule course. There is no single duration that applies to every person, but mild symptoms should improve rather than progressively worsen.
If a reaction lasts longer than expected, becomes more severe, or returns after it had settled, ask a healthcare professional to assess it. A later illness may be unrelated to vaccination, especially when there has been recent travel, exposure to infection or another new medicine.
Side-effect duration is different from how long the vaccine provides protection. For booster timing, read how long the typhoid vaccine lasts after that related guide is published.
What is a normal reaction to the typhoid vaccine?
A normal reaction is generally mild, appears soon after vaccination and starts to improve within a short period. Examples can include:
· a sore, tender, red, mildly swollen or firm area where the injection was given;
· temporary arm discomfort when lifting or using the vaccinated arm;
· a mild headache;
· muscle aches or a short period of tiredness;
· feeling mildly unwell;
· a mild fever after the injection;
· temporary abdominal discomfort, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, headache, fever or rash with the oral vaccine.
Not everyone experiences side effects after typhoid vaccination. Having no reaction does not mean the vaccine has failed, and having a stronger reaction does not mean you are better protected.
When should you get medical help after a typhoid vaccine?
Most reactions can be managed with observation and simple self-care. The important distinction is whether symptoms are mild and improving or severe, rapidly developing, persistent or worsening.
Call 999 for signs of a serious allergic reaction
Call 999 immediately if any of the following develop after vaccination:
· difficulty breathing, wheezing or a feeling that the throat is closing;
· swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat;
· collapse, fainting with failure to recover normally, severe dizziness or marked weakness;
· a rapidly spreading raised or itchy rash together with breathing difficulty or facial swelling;
· another sudden, severe reaction that appears life-threatening.
Serious allergic reactions need emergency treatment. Do not drive yourself to hospital.
Contact NHS 111, your GP or the vaccination clinic for urgent advice
Seek prompt advice if you have:
· a high or persistent fever, or a fever that is getting worse;
· severe or increasing pain, redness or swelling around the injection site;
· persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, an inability to keep fluids down, or signs of dehydration;
· severe abdominal pain;
· a widespread rash, marked swelling or another possible allergic symptom without breathing difficulty;
· symptoms that are unusually intense, do not begin to improve, or interfere significantly with normal activity;
· a concern about an oral capsule dose because of vomiting, diarrhoea or incorrect timing.
If you are unsure whether symptoms are expected, it is appropriate to ask for advice. The clinician can consider the timing, vaccine type, other vaccines given at the same appointment, medicines, medical history and any unrelated illness.
Can typhoid vaccine side effects be delayed?
Most reactions to the injection happen within the first few days. Delayed symptoms are possible, but the longer the interval between vaccination and the start of symptoms, the more important it becomes to consider other causes.
For example, a fever, diarrhoea or rash several days later may be due to another infection, food poisoning, a different medicine or a separate medical condition. Do not automatically attribute every new symptom to the vaccine.
If you become unwell during travel or after returning to the UK, tell the healthcare professional where you have been, when you travelled, what vaccines and medicines you received, and when the symptoms started.
Typhoid vaccine aftercare: what can you do?
Aftercare is mainly about staying comfortable, monitoring symptoms and knowing when to ask for help. The following measures may be useful:
· keep the injection site clean and avoid rubbing or repeatedly pressing the sore area;
· move the vaccinated arm gently during the day to reduce stiffness;
· use a cool, clean compress for short periods if the area feels sore or warm;
· rest if you feel tired, but return to normal activity as you feel able;
· drink enough fluid, especially if you have a mild fever or gastrointestinal symptoms;
· follow the patient information leaflet supplied with your vaccine;
· ask a pharmacist or other healthcare professional whether a painkiller is suitable for you, and follow the label if one is advised.
Do not take antibiotics, steroids or other medicines specifically for a vaccine reaction unless they have been recommended for you. Do not take additional oral vaccine capsules or repeat an injection because you think a reaction means the dose did not work.
Can you travel after having the typhoid vaccine?
Many people can continue normal activities and travel after vaccination if they feel well. However, it is sensible to allow time before departure because mild side effects can be inconvenient and because the vaccine needs time to provide protection.
Arrange a travel-health consultation at least four to six weeks before departure where possible. The injectable vaccine is ideally given at least two weeks before potential exposure, while the oral course needs to be completed according to its schedule before travel.
If your departure is sooner, contact a travel-health clinic rather than assuming it is too late. The advice depends on the destination, itinerary, vaccine type, previous vaccination history and individual suitability.
You can also use the TravelJabs4U destination vaccine guide as a starting point before your consultation.
Can the typhoid vaccine cause typhoid fever?
The injectable typhoid vaccine cannot cause typhoid fever because it is not a live vaccine. It contains a purified part of the bacterium that is used to stimulate an immune response.
The oral vaccine contains a live but weakened strain. It is designed to stimulate immunity without causing typhoid in people for whom it is suitable. Because it is live, it is not appropriate for everyone, including people with certain immune deficiencies.
Vaccination does not provide complete protection, so a vaccinated traveller can still develop typhoid after exposure. Careful food, water and hand hygiene remain important.
Typhoid vaccine side effects or symptoms of typhoid fever?
Expected vaccine reactions are usually mild, begin soon after vaccination and improve over a few days. Typhoid fever is an infection that can cause a persistent high temperature, headache, aches, tiredness, stomach symptoms, constipation or diarrhoea, and sometimes a rash.
Do not assume a persistent fever during or after travel is a vaccine side effect. Seek medical advice promptly and explain your travel history. Typhoid can be serious and may require testing and antibiotic treatment.
Vaccination only protects against typhoid, not most paratyphoid infection. Food and water precautions therefore remain important even when vaccination is up to date.
Are there long-term typhoid vaccine side effects?
Most recognised typhoid vaccine side effects are short-lived. The commonly reported reactions after the injection or oral capsules occur around the time of vaccination and usually settle.
People sometimes search for typhoid vaccine side effects long term after a symptom continues for weeks or months. Persistent symptoms should not simply be labelled as a vaccine reaction without assessment because they may have another cause.
If a symptom is ongoing, arrange a review with a GP or appropriate healthcare professional. Provide the vaccination date, product name if known, symptom timeline, other vaccines or medicines given at the same time, and any recent travel or illness.
What if you have reacted to a vaccine before?
Tell the travel-health professional about any previous vaccine reaction before another dose is given. Include the vaccine name, approximate date, symptoms, how quickly they began, whether treatment was needed and whether a clinician diagnosed an allergy.
A mild sore arm, headache or short-lived fever after a previous vaccination does not automatically mean you cannot have another vaccine. A previous serious allergic reaction or suspected allergy requires individual assessment and may change the choice of product or vaccination setting.
Also mention allergies to medicines, latex or vaccine ingredients, current illness, pregnancy, immune suppression and all prescription, non-prescription and herbal medicines.
Should side effects stop you from having a typhoid booster?
Mild expected reactions after a previous typhoid vaccination do not automatically rule out a future booster. The need for another dose depends on whether typhoid risk continues or returns, the date and type of your previous vaccination, and your current health.
If a previous reaction was severe, unusual or suggestive of allergy, do not book another dose without explaining what happened. The clinician may need more information or specialist advice before vaccination.
The decision should balance the travel risk with the likelihood and seriousness of another reaction. It should not be based on a general side-effect list alone.
How to book a typhoid vaccine assessment in the UK
A travel-health consultation can determine whether typhoid vaccination is recommended for your destination and itinerary, whether the injection or oral course is suitable, and how the timing fits with other vaccines, antibiotics or antimalarial medicines.
Before the appointment, gather your travel dates, destinations, planned activities, accommodation, medical history, medicine list and any available vaccination records. Tell the clinician about previous vaccine reactions and current illness.
TravelJabs4U can help you find a travel clinic near you, review the current typhoid vaccine price and booking information, or view the wider travel vaccination price guide.
A booking or consultation does not guarantee that a particular vaccine will be recommended or supplied. The final decision should follow an individual clinical assessment.
Conclusion
Typhoid vaccine side effects are usually mild and temporary. The injection most often causes a sore, red or swollen arm, headache, muscle aches, tiredness or a mild fever. The oral vaccine can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, fever or a rash.
Most reactions improve within a few days. Use simple aftercare, follow the product leaflet and ask for advice if symptoms are severe, worsening or not settling. Call 999 for breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, collapse or another rapidly developing severe allergic reaction.
If you need typhoid vaccination for travel, an individual assessment can confirm whether vaccination is recommended, which option is suitable and how to plan it around your departure date and other travel-health needs.
AUTHOR & REVIEW LINE
Written by the TravelJabs4U Editorial Team. Medically reviewed by Mohammed Shajan Ali, MPharm, GPhC-registered pharmacist (GPhC No. 2067785). Last reviewed: July 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
After the injection, the most common reactions are pain, redness, swelling or firmness at the injection site, together with headache, muscle aches, tiredness, feeling unwell or a mild fever. The oral vaccine can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, fever or a rash.
Most reactions improve within a few days. With a commonly used injectable vaccine, most reactions appear within three days and settle within one to three days after they begin. Ask for medical advice if symptoms are severe, worsening or unusually persistent.
Yes. Pain and tenderness at the injection site are expected typhoid jab side effects. Mild redness, swelling or firmness can also occur. The discomfort should improve, but seek advice if pain or swelling is severe, rapidly worsening or not beginning to settle.
A mild fever can occur after either the injectable or oral vaccine. Monitor your symptoms and seek advice if the fever is high, persistent, worsening or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. A persistent fever during or after travel should not automatically be blamed on the vaccine.
Common reactions reported with the oral vaccine include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, fever and rash. Contact the supplying clinic or pharmacist if vomiting, diarrhoea or a dosing mistake may have affected completion of the capsule course.
Typhoid vaccines have an established safety profile for people who are clinically suitable. Most side effects are mild and short-lived. The oral vaccine is live and has additional restrictions, so a healthcare professional should assess age, health, medicines, pregnancy and previous reactions.
The injectable vaccine cannot cause typhoid because it is not live. The oral vaccine contains a weakened live strain and is designed to stimulate immunity without causing typhoid in suitable people. It is not appropriate for everyone, including some people with weakened immune systems.
Call 999 for difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, collapse or another severe, rapidly developing allergic reaction. Contact NHS 111, a GP or the vaccination clinic for severe, worsening or persistent symptoms, significant dehydration or uncertainty about an oral dose.
A painkiller may be appropriate for some people, but suitability depends on age, medical conditions, other medicines and allergies. Ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional if you are unsure, and follow the label or individual advice. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
DISCLAIMER
This page provides general travel-health information and is not a substitute for an individual medical assessment. Side effects, contraindications and precautions vary between vaccine products and individuals. Always follow the advice of the healthcare professional who assessed or vaccinated you and read the patient information leaflet supplied with the vaccine. Call 999 for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. For non-emergency medical advice in the UK, contact NHS 111, your GP, a pharmacist or the vaccination clinic.
