The HiB vaccine (immunization) prevents childhood Haemophilus influenzae B infections, which can cause severe and potentially deady illnesses that affect the brain, lungs, and bones or joints.

WHO SHOULD GET THIS VACCINE

The Hib vaccine is one of the recommended childhood immunizations. Generally, states require proof that a child has received the vaccine prior to entry into daycare or preschool.

The Hib vaccine should not be given to children younger than 6 weeks of age.

Infants and toddlers should receive four total doses of the HiB vaccine. One dose should be given at each of the following ages:

• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months
• 12-15 months

Children over 5 years of age and adults do not need to receive immunization for Haemophilus influenzae type b unless they have certain medical conditions, including HIV, sickle cell disease, and some others. Ask your doctor if this applies to your child.

BENEFITS

Hib vaccine has been a great public health success story. Most infants who receiving three doses of this vaccine have long-term protection against the illnesses caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria. These illnesses include meningitis, pneumonia, and infections of the blood, bones, and joints. Such serious infections are most common in children 6 to 12 months old, but may also occur in older children. Hib meningitis was once a common serious illness that caused brain damage and death. But since the use of this vaccine, the disease is rare.

RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

Most infants who receive the Hib vaccine will have no side effects. Others may have minor problems such as soreness and redness at the injection site or a mild fever. Serious problems associated with receiving the immunization are rare and are mainly due to allergic reactions to parts of the vaccine.

Delay or do NOT give the vaccine if:

• Your child is under 6 weeks of age
• Your child has an illness more serious than a cold, immunizations may be delayed.
• Severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis occurs after an injection of the Hib vaccine, no further Haemophilus influenzae type b immunization should be given to the child.

Watch for and be familiar with how to treat minor side effects, such as injection site tenderness or low-grade fever.

Call your health care provider if:

• You are not sure if the vaccine should be delayed, withheld, or given to a specific infant
• Moderate or serious side effects appear after the vaccine has been given
• You have any other questions or concerns

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Infectious Diseases. Recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents--United States, 2008. Pediatrics. 2008 Jan;121(1):219-20.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended immunization schedules for persons aged 0 through 18 years---United States, 2009. MMWR. January 2, 2009;57(51&52);Q1-Q4.