Health Department News

Haemophilus influenzae type b is a bacteria that can cause a variety of different kinds of infections (for example, ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, blood stream infections, and infections of the covering of the spinal cord and brain). Before the introduction of an effective Hib vaccine in the late 1980’s, Hib was the leading cause of bacterial meningitis and other invasive bacterial diseases (for example, blood stream infections, pneumonia, and joint infections) among children less than 5 years of age.

Hib disease is transmitted through contact with mucus or droplets from the nose and throat of an infected person.  The symptoms of Hib depend on the location of the infection.  For example, if an individual has Hib meningitis, the symptoms may include fever, lethargy, vomiting and stiff neck. Asymtomatic carriers may be source of infection.

Because Hib is spread through respiratory secretions, individuals (particularly in child care settings) need to educated in the necessity of adopting a consistent program of good hygiene practices.  Disposable tissues and towels should be used; hand washing and disinfection procedures should be assessed.

Antibiotics are used to treat Hib infections.  Sometimes individuals exposed to a person with a Hib infection will be given antibiotics to prevent them from becoming infected with the Hib bacteria.  A certain proportion of individuals who get Hib meningitis suffer long-lasting neurologic problems, including deafness.  Despite antibiotics, 2% to 5% of individuals who develop Hib meningitis die.

To prevent the spread of Hib disease all children should be immunized with a Hib vaccine beginning at two months of age.  Recommendations for scheduling of subsequent doses of Hib vaccine vary depending on the manufacturer of the vaccine. Complete immunization is defined as having had at least 1 dose of conjugate vaccine at 15 months of age or older; 2 doses between 12 and 14 months of age; or a 2 or 3 dose primary series when younger than 12 months with a booster dose at 12 months of age or older. It is recommended that you contact your physician or the local Health Department regarding your child’s vaccination schedule.