Haemophilus influenzae type B immunization for children

The bacteria Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) can cause many serious infections in different parts of the body. Some of these infections may cause permanent disability or even death. The infections include:

meningitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the brain)
epiglottitis (inflammation of the epiglottis, the flap of tissue that covers the voice box and windpipe to protect the airway when you swallow; if left untreated, this inflammation can block the airway and cause respiratory failure.)
pneumonia (a lung infection)
arthritis (inflammation of a joint)
pericarditis (inflammation of the membrane covering the heart)
septicemia (a blood infection)
cellulitis (inflammation of connective tissue)
In the past, these infections were most common in children between ages 6 months and 5 years. Routine immunization dramatically has decreased the incidence of these serious infections in the last decade. In fact, the H. influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine is more than 95 percent effective in preventing Hib. The vaccine is an inactivated vaccine, which means it contains a dead form of the bacteria that causes Hib.


Recommendations/dose
Children routinely are vaccinated between ages 2 months and 15 months. Three or four shots are needed, depending on the brand of vaccine that's used.

Effectiveness/booster
The Hib vaccine is 95 to 100 percent effective in preventing Hib illness, which includes a number of serious infections, some of which can cause permanent disability or death. A booster isn't needed.

Side effects
Side effects are uncommon. When they occur, they're usually mild and can include soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site; mild to moderate fever; and fussiness. Side effects typically begin within 24 hours and usually last less than 48 hours. Allergic reactions are possible, but rare.

Who should wait to receive the vaccine?
Your child's doctor may postpone this vaccine if your child has a moderate to severe acute illness.

Who shouldn't receive the vaccine?
Your child shouldn't receive the vaccine if she or he has had a severe allergic reaction to a prior Hib vaccination or any of its components. The vaccine isn't given to babies younger than age 6 weeks.