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Disease information

Haemophilus influenzae type b

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, particularly in young children. These include meningitis, bloodstream infection, pneumonia and swelling in the throat. Despite its name, Hib does not cause influenza. Hib is one type of H. influenzae; the Hib vaccine does not protect against every infection caused by this wider group of bacteria.

Prevention: Mixed

Symptoms

  • Fever and unusual tiredness
  • Cough, chest pain or breathing difficulty with pneumonia
  • Headache, stiff neck or confusion with meningitis
  • Babies may feed poorly, be irritable or seem unusually inactive

Transmission

  • Respiratory droplets released through coughing or sneezing
  • Close or prolonged contact with a person carrying the bacteria
  • People without symptoms can carry and spread the bacteria

Prevention

Vaccination is the main protection against Hib disease. Follow the applicable childhood programme and individual medical advice. Handwashing and reducing close contact with people who are ill also help. Close contacts of a case may need preventive antibiotics after assessment.

Diagnosis and care

Serious Hib infection needs prompt medical care and antibiotics. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, confusion or a very unwell child.

Source

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