Hib Vaccine for Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Bacteria Infection Cause of Meningitis & Pneumonia

Haemophilus influenzae type B infection, often referred to as Hib, is a potentially deadly infectious disease caused by a bacteria of the same name. Hib bacterium is not the cause of influenza, because a virus causes that upper respiratory infection.

Haemophilus influenzae type B was once the leading cause of bacterial meningitis, usually infecting children under age 5. The Hib vaccine program has substantially reduced this cause within global areas where immunizations are routinely injected.

Presently, the majority of Hib deaths occur in countries without a Hib vaccination program. And pneumonia, rather than meningitis, accounts for the highest loss of life in those areas.

In addition to meningitis and pneumonia, haemophilus influenzae type B bacteria infection can also cause:

For those who survive the invasive contagion, mental retardation, deafness, permanent joint damage, blindness or other permanent disabilities are possible outcomes.

Treatment of Haemophilus influenzae is an intensive, sustained course of antibiotics.

Haemophilus influenza can be prevented with the HIB vaccine.  The course of immunization is usually injections at 2, 4 and 6 months, with a final booster between 12-15 months.

Hib vaccination is also recommended for older folks with certain immune deficiencies, particularly if you suffer these health conditions:

Haemophilus influenzae type B is contagious and spreads via coughs and sneezes. Even though you have immunity, you can be a carrier after exposure to Hib. Thus, dispersing it to otherwise healthy individuals lacking antibody protection.

Neither a vaccine nor having had an infection guarantees immunity. Yet, the Hib vaccine has proven to be highly effective.

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