How Long Does Typhoid Vaccine Protect My Children? Effectiveness and Duration in India

One dose of TCV at 9 months starts years of protection.

Typhoid is one of those illnesses most parents have heard of—but few realise how common it still is in India. Every year, lakhs of children fall ill due to contaminated food or water, leading to high fever, weakness, and, sometimes, hospitalisation. The good news? Typhoid is preventable with just one simple step: vaccination!

If you're wondering about typhoid vaccine effectiveness in children, or how long it protects your child, you're not alone. Many parents ask us, “How long does typhoid immunity last in children?” or “Does my child need a booster for typhoid vaccine?” In this blog, we’ll answer all your concerns—clearly, simply, and with warmth.

🛡️ Guess Typhoid Vaccine Effectiveness in Children—How Effective ?

Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) is highly effective and designed specifically for young children. Once given, it helps the child’s body recognise and fight off the Salmonella typhi bacteria, which causes typhoid.

• Studies show that TCV offers more than 80–90% protection against typhoid fever in children.

• It works even in children as young as 6–9 months.

• Protection kicks in about 2–3 weeks after the shot.

So if you're vaccinating your baby, you're giving their immune system a head start—especially important in India, where waterborne infections are still common.

👉 Real Tip: Avoid street food and unclean water for a few days after vaccination, just as a precaution.

⏳ How Long Does Typhoid Immunity Last in Children?

This is the question most parents worry about: “Will this protect my child for years—or just for a few months?”

Here’s what current research and national guidelines tell us:

• Protection is robust for ages 6 months to 10 years: Single-dose TCV offers durable immunity, with little decline in efficacy (only about 1–1.3% per year lost over four years).

• Infants vaccinated before age 2 may experience faster decline: Some data suggests that children vaccinated at less than 2 years old lose protection more quickly, and a booster at school-entry age may be beneficial

• For long-term safety, some doctors may recommend a booster around age 5 to 7, especially if the child is at higher risk (e.g., frequent travel, school outbreaks).

✅ Bottom line: One dose at 9 months + a booster later can protect your child for years.

💉 Does My Child Need a Booster for Typhoid Vaccine?

Under India's 2025 immunisation schedule, the first TCV dose is given at 9 months. That’s when your child’s immune system is mature enough to respond well.

So, is a booster required?

• Not mandatory for all—but recommended in areas where typhoid is common or for children attending school, traveling, or exposed to higher risk.

• A booster between 18–24 months or 4–7 years can top up protection.

📌 Clinic Tip: Ask your pediatrician during routine check-ups if your child needs a booster—especially if they haven’t received one in over 5 years.

A timely booster can keep typhoid away for years.

👪 Why Typhoid Vaccine Is Important for Your Child's Long-Term Health

Here’s what parents don’t always realise: Typhoid isn’t just about fever and tummy upset. Severe cases can lead to:

• Hospitalisation

• Intestinal perforation (a rare, life-threatening emergency)

• Missed school and disrupted family schedules

• Antibiotic resistance if not treated early

By vaccinating your child, you’re doing more than preventing a single illness—you’re protecting their overall health and long-term immunity.

🌿 Think of it like this: The vaccine is like installing a safety gate at your front door—keeping dangerous intruders out before they even get in.

📝 Summary: What Should You Do as a Parent?

• Get the TCV shot at 6-9 months (or as soon as possible if missed)

• Ask about a booster around age 3 or 4 (when your child is ready to go to school).

• Avoid contaminated food/water, especially while traveling

• Keep vaccine records handy for school or health emergencies

See why combo infant shots cut clinic visits →

✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How effective is typhoid vaccine in children? Over 80–90% effective, especially with the conjugate type (TCV).

2. How long does typhoid vaccine immunity last in children? Protection lasts at least 4-5 years; boosters may extend it further.

3. Does my child need a booster for typhoid vaccine? Not always, but a booster is advised between 2–5 years for added protection.

4. Can my 3-year-old still get the typhoid vaccine if we missed it at 9 months? Yes! It’s safe and recommended for children up to 15 years old.

5. Are there side effects of typhoid vaccine? Mostly mild—fever or redness at the injection site, lasting 1–2 days.

6. Is the vaccine safe with other routine immunizations? Yes. TCV can be given with MMR, DTP, and other standard vaccines.

7. Does the vaccine protect against all types of typhoid? It protects against Salmonella typhi, the most common cause. It does not cover paratyphoid strains.

8. Is TCV included in the government vaccine schedule? No. It is not yet part of the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).

9. How can I tell if my child still has immunity? There’s no routine test; your doctor can advise based on records and risk factors. Check with us now!

10. Where can I get the typhoid vaccine near me? Most pediatric clinics (like ours!) offer it. (Get quote)

    
    

📞 Ready to Protect Your Child?

Book your child’s vaccination or booster appointment today at Dr. Ajay’s Pediatric & Family Wellness Clinic. We make immunization stress-free for you and fun for your child.

👉 Click here to schedule your visit or call us at 98888 10753.