What Is Hib Disease?

Haemophilus influenzae type B, or Hib, disease is caused by a bacterial infection. It usually strikes children under five years old. Hib disease can lead to:

People can carry Hib bacteria and not know it. These germs can spread from person to person, usually through droplets from an infected person. When the germs stay in the nose and throat, sickness will probably not occur. But when they spread into the lungs or the bloodstream, they can cause serious problems.

Before the vaccine, severe Hib disease affected about 20,000 US children under age five.

Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Stiff neck
  • Other symptoms, depending on the part of the body affected

It usually takes less than 10 days after being exposed to develop symptoms. It is treated with antibiotics.

What Is the Hib Vaccine?

The Hib vaccine is made from inactivated elements of the bacteria. It is injected into the muscle.

Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?

Children should get 3-4 doses (depending on the dose) at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age.

Also, if a dose is missed, speak to the doctor. There are different catch-up schedules depending on the brand and your child's age.

This vaccine is not routinely recommended for children aged over five years. It is sometimes given to children and adults with certain conditions, such as:

What Are the Risks Associated With the Hib Vaccine?

Like any vaccine, the Hib vaccine can cause serious problems, such as a severe allergic reaction. While most people do not have any problems, some have redness, warmth, or swelling near the injection site, as well as a fever.

Acetaminophen (eg, Tylenol) is sometimes given to reduce pain and fever that may occur after getting a vaccine. In infants, the medicine may weaken the vaccine's effectiveness. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking acetaminophen with the doctor.

Who Should Not Get Vaccinated?

The following people should not get the vaccine:

  • Children aged over five years or younger than six weeks
  • People who have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to a previous dose of Hib vaccine
  • People who are moderately to severely ill (They need to wait until they have recovered.)

What Other Ways Can Hib Disease Be Prevented Besides Vaccination?

Antibiotics may be given to infants and young children who have not been vaccinated and have been exposed to the disease.

What Happens in the Event of an Outbreak?

In the event of an outbreak, public health officials will determine who is at risk and vaccinate people.