Disclaimer: This article is for information only. Compiling the information has been done with care but we make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care expert for updates or when in doubt.
What is the Hib (Haemophilus influenza Type B) vaccine?
Haemophilus influenza type B or Hib is a bacterium which has the potential to cause serious infections. Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain or meningitis is a serious repercussion found to afflict young kids. Other serious diseases include pneumonia, hearing loss, inflammation of the throat or epiglottitis, bacteremia or bacteria in the blood, joint and bone infection and ear infections. Some of the infections are quite severe and have long term consequences. Basically Hib can be spread through sneezing, coughing and other secretions from an infected party. Hib mainly affects young children, especially those less than five years of age. All the vaccines used are killed vaccines made from parts of the bacteria. The vaccine is very effective in preventing serious Hib infections. Three to four shots are required depending on the vaccine brand in use (there are several brands available in the market). All Hib vaccines are safe with no notable side-effects apart from mild tenderness and redness at the site of the shot. Interestingly, findings show that breastfed babies are less likely to contract Hib, and that fortunately it does not spread easily.
Dose: Hib vaccines are usually administered with other vaccines simultaneously. Vaccines can be Hib alone, Pentacel combined with DTaP & IPV or Comvax (combined with recombinant hepatitis B (HBV) vaccine). Dosage will depend on the brand used. Shots to be given at 2,4,6 and 12-15 months.
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