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-   -   Typhoid shot Costa Rica ? (https://www.fodors.com/community/mexico-and-central-america/typhoid-shot-costa-rica-915839/)

Osa Dec 25th, 2011 09:14 PM

Typhoid shot Costa Rica ?
 
I am taking my kids on a trip to the Playa Grande and renting a house, so we'll be eating mostly "in house " . CDC rec's typhoid vaccince for CR , but the vaccine is only 40-60 percent effective and some sites say you only need it if you are in an undeveloped rural counrty for more than 4 wks... Has anyone skipped getting vaccine when traveling in Costa , or who reccomends it, or has heard of Typhoid in Costa Rica??
Thanks

volcanogirl Dec 25th, 2011 09:54 PM

We've never had any special shots to travel there.

tully Dec 25th, 2011 10:29 PM

Never had any shots for CR. Haven't heard of typhoid in CR.

qwovadis Dec 26th, 2011 02:35 AM

http://www.mdtravelhealth.com/destin...osta_rica.html Correct info above it is a health risk CDC suggests it most do not comply.Personally only take it in remote areas
where I am eating lots of street food and water purity cannot
be assured.Travellers Diarrhea and Dengue the 2 biggest risks
for most so careful food water precautions cutteradvanced and
a good medical kit always wise. www.istm.org best Travel MD aite.

Good luck!

Max_Gomez Dec 26th, 2011 04:31 AM

Hi,
I have lived in Costa Rica for almost twenty years and I can assure you that I have never heard of a single case of typhoid contracted by a tourist. I must divulge that I am in the tourism business, as a matter of full disclosure.
If you are concerend about ANY tropical diseases they are usually spread by mosquitos so the best practice is to use bug spray at dawn and dusk (and remember to put it on first because its a "repellent" NOT an "antidote") as well as a fan pointed at you while you sleep will effectively keep all mosquitos at bay and allow you to sleep well. Feel free to contact me if you have more questions.
Max

JeanH Dec 26th, 2011 05:28 AM

I keep my typhoid vaccine up to date, I spend significant time in Belize.

I'm pretty sure I was first vaccinated for either a trip to Costa Rica or Panama.

Depending on the age of your children, and whether they can swallow pills, there is an oral typhoid vaccine available (at least in the US). Effective for five years, rather than two for the injectable.

Personally, I'd get the vaccinations, especially when traveling with children. You're going to feel really guilty if they get sick.


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