Haemophilus lnfluenzae Type b
(Hib, Haemophilus b)
What is Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) disease?
Until recently, Hib was one of the most important causes of bacterial
infection in young children. Hib may cause a variety of diseases such
as meningitis (inflammation of the coverings of the spinal column and
brain), blood stream infections, pneumonia, arthritis and infections
of other parts of the body. Due to widespread use of Hib vaccine in
children, very few cases of Hib are reported each year in New York State.
Who gets Hib disease?
Hib disease is most common in children three months to three years
of age.
How is Hib disease spread?
Hib disease may be transmitted through contact with mucus or droplets
from the nose and throat of an infected person.
What are the symptoms of Hib disease?
Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, vomiting and a stiff neck. Other
symptoms depend upon the part of the body affected.
How soon do symptoms appear?
The incubation period for Hib disease is usually less than 10 days.
When and for how long is a person able to spread Hib disease?
The contagious period varies and, unless treated, may persist for
as long as the organism is present in the nose and throat, even after
symptoms have disappeared.
Does past infection with Hib disease make a person immune?
No. Children who have had Hib disease are at risk of recurrence.
What is the treatment for Hib disease?
Antibiotics such as ampicillin or chloramphenicol are generally used
to treat serious infections. Rifampin is used to treat people who may
be carrying the germ.
What are the possible complications associated with Hib disease?
Hib disease manifests itself in a variety of ways, most commonly meningitis.
When Hib meningitis occurs, a certain proportion of those who recover
may suffer long-lasting neurologic problems. In some instances, cases
may be fatal.
What can be done to prevent the spread of Hib disease?
There are currently several Hib conjugate vaccines licensed by the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in children as early as two
months of age. Immunization authorities recommend that all children
be immunized with an approved Hib vaccine beginning at two months of
age or as soon as possible thereafter. Recommendations for scheduling
of subsequent doses vary depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, it
is important to consult with your physician.
Updated: April 1996
Source: NY State Department of Health
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