Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (HiB) Vaccine

Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (HiB) is a serious disease caused by bacterial that usually affects children under the age of 5. It is spread through human contact. Before the vaccine was developed, HIB was the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children under 5. Meningitis is an infection of the coverings of the brain and spinal chord which can cause brain damage, deafness, pneumonia, severe swelling of the throat; infections of the blood, bones, joints, and coverings of the heart; and death. To avoid these complicated symptoms, it is possible that the HIB vaccine may help. The vaccine has reduced the number of active cases of HIB.

Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (HiB) Vaccines

The HiB vaccine prevents HiB disease which causes bacterial meningitis. It is generally given in four doses. These doses are given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 1 year of age. However, your child may not need the 6 month dose depending on the brand used. Your child’s health care provider can tell you whether the 6-month dose is necessary.

Risks of Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (HiB) Vaccine

Some mild risks associated with the HiB vaccine include redness, warmth or swelling at the injection site and fever of over 101°. However, these symptoms usually go away within 2-3 days. If not, it is recommended that you call your doctor to discuss it.

Major risks can include high fever, behavioral changes, difficulty breathing, hoarseness, wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, quickened heartbeat, and dizziness within a few hours after the vaccine has been administered. If any of these occur, seek medical attention for your child immediately. Waiting could result in permanent conditions.

Is the vaccine right for you?

The HiB vaccine is recommended for children under the age of 5 and is given in 3 to 4 separate injections. This vaccine can be taken other vaccines.

Children over 5 years old generally do not need this vaccine. However, if your child has sickle cell disease, AIDS/HIV, removal of the spleen, bone marrow transplant, or is undergoing cancer treatment with drugs, talk to your child’s health care provider about receiving the vaccine.

The vaccine is not recommended for people who have had a life-threatening reaction to any of the 3-4 injections, children less than 6 weeks old, or those who are ill at the time of the appointment. Talk to your child’s health care provider for more information.