The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has explained what the new mandatory typhoid vaccination policy for food handlers involves and how it will be implemented nationwide. This programme forms part of efforts to reduce typhoid fever cases linked to contaminated food and improve overall food safety in the country.
Under the new policy, all food handlers including street vendors, market sellers, restaurant and hotel staff, and workers in food and drink establishments must receive a typhoid vaccine before they can be certified to operate. Without proof of vaccination, food handlers will not be issued the health certificate required by local authorities to sell or serve food.
The programme is planned to be rolled out in phases starting with formal food outlets such as hotels, restaurants and food and beverage companies before expanding to include traders and vendors in markets and other informal settings. While the vaccine will not be free, it will be subsidised to make it affordable for food handlers.
Health officials say the vaccination provides protection for up to three years, which makes it a more effective prevention strategy than relying on annual medical screening alone. The vaccine has been approved by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority, and the Ministry of Health has assured the public that it meets recognised safety and quality standards.
GHS leaders also emphasised that this initiative marks a shift from reactive disease treatment towards proactive prevention. By ensuring that food handlers are vaccinated, health authorities hope to reduce the transmission of typhoid fever through contaminated food and protect both workers and the public.
The mandatory vaccination policy will be backed by public education campaigns to raise awareness of typhoid fever and the importance of prevention. Food safety officials and local health teams will work together to support implementation and ensure that food handlers are informed about the new requirements before they take effect
