What are Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) infections?
• Even though “influenzae” is a part of its name, the Hib bacteria do not cause influenza. Hib infections are much more serious. Before the Hib vaccine was used, the Hib bacteria were a common cause of serious infections in children. • More than half of all children with Hib infection develop meningitis. Meningitis is a serious infection of the fluid and lining that cover the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can cause brain damage, learning and developmental problems, deafness, and blindness. One out of 20 children with meningitis will die. • Hib bacteria also cause a serious infection of the throat called epiglottitis. This can make it difficult for a child to breathe. Hib bacteria can also cause infection of the lungs (pneumonia), and bone and joint infections. • Children under five years of age and those who attend child-care centres are most likely to get Hib disease. Hib bacteria spread to others through coughing and sneezing. Many people carry the Hib bacteria without any signs
