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Hib Disease (Haemophilus influenzae type b)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is spread by coughing and sneezing. Many people have Hib bacteria without becoming ill. However, it can cause serious illness, especially in children under five years of age. Hib disease can cause infections of the joints, skin, and blood, meningitis (swelling of the covering of the brain and spinal cord), brain damage, and even death. Before the vaccine was available, Hib disease was the most common cause of meningitis in children under age five years.

Symptoms of illness include:

• High fever.
• Severe headache.
• Stiff neck.
• Quiet or withdrawn behavior.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Vomiting.
• Ear infections.
• Convulsions.

Scientific Term:

Haemophilus influenzae type b

Generic Term:

• Hib
• Hib Disease

Age Groups at Risk:

Most people over five years of age do not need Hib vaccine. However, you should discuss getting the vaccine with your physician if you have:

• Sickle cell anemia.
• A weakened immune system because of HIV/AIDS or other diseases that affect the immune system.
• Drug treatment, such as long-term steroids.
• Cancer treatment with X-rays or drugs.
• A bone marrow or organ transplant.
• No spleen or a damaged spleen.

Fact Sheets:

• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Fact Sheet

Vaccine Info:

• Ages 0-5: Hib Vaccine or Hib plus DTaP
   
• Ages 6 and Up: Hib Vaccine or Hib plus Hepatitis B vaccine

Vaccine Information Statements:

• Hib
• Multiple Vaccines

Related Information:

• Notifiable Conditions: Haemophilus influenzae
• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Fact Sheet

 

Last Update: 05/21/2009 06:17 PM