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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is bacteria that causes serious disease. It usually occurs in children younger than age 5. It's spread from person-to-person by coughing and sneezing. If the germs spread into tissues like the lungs or to the bloodstream, Hib can cause serious illness. This includes:
Meningitis. This is an infection of the coverings of the spinal cord and brain.
Pneumonia. This is an infection in the lungs.
Epiglottitis. This is severe swelling in the throat.
Otitis media. This is an infection of the inner ear.
Other infections. These include infections of the sinuses, blood, joints, bones, and covering of the heart.
Illness caused by Hib has been nearly abolished in the U.S. since 1987. That's because of a vaccine. In rare cases, children and adults may still develop Hib infections. This can occur if the person has not completed their series of vaccines. Or it can happen in older children and adults who didn't get the vaccine earlier in life. Or if they have lost their immunity from the vaccine from certain illnesses or medicines.
The Hib vaccine is given to babies and children in 3 or 4 doses depending on the brand of vaccine at these ages:
2 months
4 months
6 months (if needed, depends on the brand of vaccine)
12 to 15 months
Children younger than 6 weeks of age should not get the Hib vaccine. Children who have a moderate to severe illness with or without a fever should wait until they are well to get the Hib vaccine. Children who should not get Hib include those who have had a severe reaction to the Hib vaccine. Your child's healthcare provider will advise you on the vaccine in these and other cases.
A vaccine is like any medicine. It can rarely cause major side effects, such as an allergic reaction. The risk of Hib causing serious harm or death is very small. Its benefits well outweigh this risk. Most people who get the Hib vaccine don't have any problems with it. Some minor reactions may include:
Redness, warmth, or swelling at the site where the shot was given
Fever
Give your child aspirin-free pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed by your child's healthcare provider. Never give a child aspirin as it can cause serious liver disease and death.
An allergic reaction would most likely occur within a few minutes to a few hours of the shot. Signs of an allergic reaction may include:
Trouble breathing
Wheezing. This is a squeaking sound while breathing because of tight airways.
Weakness
Fast heartbeat
Skin rash (hives)
Swelling of face and throat
Change in behavior
Report these or any other unusual signs to your child's healthcare provider right away. Call