Typhoid Prevention for STP?

[gfranzen]

I'm getting conflicting input on the need for a typhoid live oral vaccine or shot for a few days in STP. The CDC seems to talk more about Eastern Russia. Thoughts?

[kaisatsu]

Obviously your doctor is the best one to answer this question, based on your individual health background. Generally speaking, St.Petersburg is considered more western European and is therefore a lower risk. But of course, if you have certain medical conditions, it may be worth being vaccinated even if the risk isn't as high as some other places.

[TheGenie]

Here's what the US Centers for Disease Control says:

 

http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/russia.aspx

 

On consulting with my brother (a doctor) my 73 year old mother got vaccinated for Typhoid, but my 16 year daughter elected not to (we also consulted her pediatrician). DD has all other shots up to date, especially Hepatitis and Tetanus. The reason is if you get injured, and require even minor surgery, infection risk may be higher if the standard of sterilization or recycling of surgical instruments is not to local standards.

 

They were also told to make certain they had DEET based bug repellant (especially in St. Petersburg for mosquito and gnats), and do not drink any potentially untreated water [tap, ice cubes], or eat foods that may have been in contact with such water (salads, raw veggies, etc.).