What is Hib (Haemophilus influenzae B) ?
Haemophilius influenzae B (Hib) is a bacteria that can cause serious infection in humans particularly in children, but also in individuals with weakened immune system.
How is Hib Spread?
It is a contagious bacteria that is spread by close contact with an infected person.
What illnesses does it cause?
Hib can cause serious disease including
- Meningitis (inflammation of the lining around the brain)
- Septicaemia (blood poisoning)
- Epiglottitis (swelling in the throat that causes choking)
- Osteomyelitis (infection of the bone)
How is Hib transmitted?
Hib lives in the nose and throats of humans. It is spread through the air by coughing, sneezing or even breathing.
Who is most at risk?
Hib disease is most common in children under 4 years of age, especially at risk are babies under one year of age.
Is there a vaccine against Hib?
Since 1992 Hib vaccine has been offered to all children as part of the routine immunisation programme. Hib vaccine is part of the 6 in 1 vaccine (Dihptheria/Tetanus/Pertussis/Polio/Hib/Hepatitis B) and is given at 2,4 and 6 months of age to children who were born on or after 1st July 2008.
Is a Hib booster necessary?
Following the introduction of the Hib vaccine the number of cases of Hib disease declined dramatically. However in 2004 a small number of cases of Hib disease occured in children who were fully vaccinated.
All children reaching 13 months of age are now offered the Hib booster at the same time as their 3rd dose of Men C. This will give extra protection against Hib infection.
Are there any side-effects?
Mild side-effects, such as a raised temperature, may happen but they do not last long. Some children may have discomfort, redness or swelling where the injection was given.
How safe is the Hib vaccine?
Hib vaccine has been proven to be one of the safest vaccines available. Over 20 million doses had been used worldwide and no serious adverse reactions had been reported.
If you have any further queries you should contact your GP/family doctor or Local Health Office.
Where can I find out more?
You can ask for further information regarding immunisation from your G.P., Public Health Nurse or Local HSE clinic
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