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Hib (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 kids under five. 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 kids under five.

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• Quiet or withdrawn behavior.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 age five don't need Hib vaccine. However, you should discuss getting the vaccine with your health care provider 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

• Hib In-Short (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Vaccine Information

• Ages birth to five: Hib Vaccine or Hib Vaccine plus DTaP Vaccine (Department of Health)
• Ages six and up: Hib Vaccine or Hib Vaccine plus Hepatitis B Vaccine (Department of Health)

Vaccine Information Statements

• Hib (Haemophilus Influenzae type b) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• Multiple Vaccines (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Related Information

Department of Health:

• Notifiable Conditions: Haemophilus influenzae

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Hib Vaccination

Last Update: 01/09/2012 02:51 PM