|
Haemophilus influenzae in
Washington State
Since the widespread adoption of routine childhood
immunization against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) in
1991, the rates of invasive Hib fell dramatically. In order
to assure that surveillance was adequate to identify cases
of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease, Haemophilus
influenzae invasive disease of all types (including b) was
made reportable in late 2000. DOH now receives 4 to 13
reports of invasive H. influenzae of any type in children
under 5 annually, with rare fatalities.
Purpose of Reporting and
Surveillance
- To identify susceptible preschool-age children who may
have been significantly exposed to a case of invasive H. influenzae.
- To educate potentially exposed persons about signs and
symptoms of disease, thereby facilitating early diagnosis.
- To identify contacts and recommend preventive measures,
including antibiotic prophylaxis and immunization.
- To identify situations of undervaccination or vaccine
failure for Hib .
Reporting Requirements
- Health care providers: immediately notifiable to
Local Health Jurisdiction
- Hospitals: immediately notifiable to Local Health
Jurisdiction
- Laboratories: no requirements for reporting
- Local health jurisdictions: notifiable to DOH
Communicable Disease Epidemiology within 7 days of case
investigation completion or summary information required
within 21 days
Last
guideline update
Dec. 2006 |
|
