Disease
Fact Sheet Series:
What is Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)?
Hib are bacteria that may cause a variety of
diseases including blood infection and meningitis (inflammation of the
lining of the brain).
How common is Hib disease?
Since the introduction of the Hib vaccine in 1988, Hib cases have
declined by 95% in infants and young children. Before the use of an
effective vaccine, Hib was the most common cause of bacterial meningitis
in children.
Who gets Hib infection?
Anyone can get Hib infection, but it is most common in children
between the ages of three months and three years. The elderly and persons
with weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk of developing the
disease.
How is Hib infection spread?
Hib infection is spread by inhalation of droplets that contain the
bacteria from the nose and throat. Although not common, some individuals
may carry Hib in their nose and throat without becoming ill and
potentially spread the bacteria to others.
What are the symptoms of Hib infection?
Fever is present in all forms of Hib infection. Other symptoms of Hib
infection depend on the part of the body affected. Hib can result in sinus
infections, earaches, and skin infections. Hib may also cause serious
illnesses like meningitis, (characterized by the usually sudden onset of
fever, lethargy, vomiting, and a stiff and/or rigid neck and back),
pneumonia, epiglottitis (inflammation of upper airway), and blood stream
infections.
How soon do the symptoms appear?
The period between exposure to Hib and the beginning of symptoms is
unknown, but is probably short (2-4 days).
Does past infection with Hib make a person immune?
Children who develop Hib infection before 24 months of age may not
develop immunity and should still be immunized with the Hib vaccine. If
Hib infection occurs in an unimmunized child after 24 months of age, the
child generally develops future immunity and vaccination is not necessary.
What is the treatment for Hib infection?
Hib infections are treated with antibiotics. Patients are no longer
infectious 24-48 hours after receiving effective antimicrobial therapy.
What can be done to prevent the spread of Hib
infection?
All children should be immunized with Hib conjugate vaccine beginning
at approximately two months of age. Close contacts of a person infected
with Hib may require immediate preventative antibiotics depending on
circumstances.
For more information, contact your
Local
Public Health Department
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Last Revised: November 04, 2008
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