HIB Vaccine

Haemophilus Influenzae type B (HIB)

It is a bacteria whose infection usually causes serious disease in children under 5 years old. It can also affect adults but in adults, it causes less complications.
It is spread by air from person to person. Some persons, especially adults can carry these bacteria in their nose and throat, without getting sickness but they can very well spread to other people. Its only when the bacteria spread into the lungs or the bloodstream, then HIB can cause serious problems.

Disease caused by HIB

It can cause meningitis. Meningitis is an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It can lead to brain damage and deafness. HIB can also cause Infection of Lungs(pneumonia), Ear Infections(Otitis media). Some times it can be a cause of serious infections of the blood, joints, bones, and covering of the heart.

Vaccination Schedule for HIB

A total of 4 doses of HIB vaccine are administered to children starting at 6 weeks of age and last dose at age 15 months plus after which no further boosters are required.
If some one has started late then dose schedule is little different.
HIB vaccine is commonly available as a combination vaccine with DPT and Hepatitis B so if given on time it saves any extra pricks for the child later.