VPMD: Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib)

What is Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib)?

Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib), is a bacterium known to cause a variety of infectious diseases, similar to Strep pneumoniae. While anyone can be infected with Hib, those at greatest risk for serious infections and complications include, children, older adults and those whom are immunocompromised. Hib is passed from person to person most commonly through respiratory droplets; It is is known to cause infectious disease of the respiratory system, central nervous system (CNS) , soft tissue and bones/joints.

What are the symptoms of Hib?

The symptoms of a Hib infection depends on the system that is involved.

Respiratory system: Fever, Cough, Shortness of breath in pneumonia, Stridor, sore throat and difficulty swallowing in epiglotitis, ear pain in ear infections.

Central Nervous System: Fever, headache, neck pain/stiffness, fatigue, sensitivity to light in meningitis.

Soft tissue: Fever, redness, pain, swelling in cellulitis

Bone and Joints: Fever, joint swelling, pain, inability to walk as in septic arthritis and osteomyelitis.

Cardiovascular: Fever, chest pain, palpitations, arrythimia, shortness of breath, dizziness in endocarditis and pericarditis.

Complications include deafness, bindness, sepsis and death.

How are Hib infections diagnosed?

These infections are diagnosed through a combination of historical, physical and clinical findings, including demonstration of Hib in infected fluids/tissue through culture and/or molecular testing.

How are Hib infections treated?

Antibiotics are the cornerstone of treating Hib infections, in addition to treatment of symptoms and prevention of complications.

How are Hib infections prevented?

The Hib vaccination is initially given in infancy with a booster dose given between 12-15 months old.

Sources: CDC, Cleveland Clinic