A major water infrastructure failure has triggered a typhoid outbreak in Gandhinagar, Gujarat State, with more than 130 cases reported since December 20, 2025. Sewage leaked into newly installed drinking water pipelines at seven locations, contaminating the supply in Sectors 24, 26, 28, and Adiwada areas. Most victims are children and teenagers, with 88 patients hospitalized simultaneously at the outbreak’s peak.
Understanding Typhoid Risk
Typhoid is a significant global health issue that affects millions of people each year, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation and water quality. Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water, causing prolonged high fever, severe headache, and stomach pain. It is especially prevalent in the Indian subcontinent and is also a risk throughout Asia, Africa and regions of South and Central America.
Essential Prevention Measures
While authorities are responding to this incident, travelers must take their own precautions. Never drink tap water—even for brushing teeth. Use only bottled, boiled, or filtered water, avoid ice made from tap water, eat thoroughly cooked food, and skip street vendor meals. Practice frequent, thorough handwashing regardless of vaccination status.
Vaccination Recommendations
Typhoid vaccination is recommended for ALL travelers to India. Even with vaccination, strict food and water precautions remain essential. The vaccine (available as an injection lasting 2 years or oral capsules lasting 5 years) should be given at least 2 weeks before travel for maximum protection.
TravelBug Health offers typhoid vaccination and comprehensive travel health consultations to keep you safe in India and destinations worldwide. Schedule your pre-travel appointment to ensure you have all necessary vaccines and advice before you go.
Learn more about typhoid vaccination options on our website or book an appointment here.
References:
Outbreak News Today. India: Typhoid outbreak in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. January 2026.
The Wire. Gujarat Typhoid Outbreak: Sewage Contaminates Drinking Water Network. January 2026.
