Hib disease (Haemophilus Influenzae type B): Causes, Symptoms, Transmission, Treatment and Prevention

Haemophilus Influenzae

Hib disease is an infection caused by the Haemophilus influenzae type B bacterium, and in most cases, it occurs in children under 5 years of age, but it can also affect adults who have other medical conditions.

Type B is the most widespread and most aggressive, being responsible for 95% of infectious strains.

Infection with this microbe can cause meningitis, pneumonia, epiglottitis (severe inflammation of the airways that can lead to suffocation), and other severe diseases.

Mode of transmission

The Hib bacterium is transmitted through the air, by direct contact, or through sneezing and coughing. It usually remains in the throat but can spread to the lungs or enter the circulatory system, leading to severe infections.

Contagiousness is high, especially among children.

Symptoms

The Hib bacterium can cause mild illnesses, such as ear infections or bronchitis, or it can cause serious illnesses, such as bloodstream infections.

In over half of the recorded cases, Hib can cause meningitis, a condition affecting the membrane that covers the brain, which is often fatal. Symptoms of meningitis include fever, stiff neck, nausea, sensitivity to light, and confusion.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made following the collection of blood or spinal fluid.

Treatment

Treatment for Hib disease consists of administering antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, based on the tests performed. Self-medication at home is contraindicated.

Due to the severe symptoms produced by Hib disease, hospitalization of the infected patient is indicated.

Prevention

The Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine can prevent the onset of the disease and is included in national immunization programs worldwide.

Depending on the brand of Hib vaccine, three or four doses are recommended. Typically, infants will be administered the first dose intramuscularly at 2 months of age, and the remaining doses are given by 12–15 months of age.

Following vaccination, side effects are very rare and minor (redness and local pain). The vaccine does not cause the disease and does not increase the predisposition to developing it.

References

https://www.nfid.org/infectious-diseases/hib/
https://vaccinare-covid.gov.ro/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/boli_prevenibile_vaccinare_14122020.pdf
https://www.romedic.ro/vaccinul-antihaemophilus-influenzae-tip-b-hib-0P32594
https://www.sfatulmedicului.ro/Infectii-cu-streptococi–stafilococi-si-alte-bacterii/infectia-cu-haemophilus-influenzae-tip-b-hib_630