Hib Vaccine

What is the Hib vaccine?

The Hib vaccine is a shot of medicine that helps prevent infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Hib is one of many types of Haemophilus influenza bacteria (germ) that can cause infections. The Hib bacteria may be found in the mouth, throat, or nose. The most common way of spreading the bacteria from person to person is by coughing or sneezing. Coming into contact with an infected person by kissing or sharing food, drinks, and utensils may also spread the bacteria. Hib bacteria may also spread after an ear, nose, throat, sinus, or brain infection.

How does the Hib vaccine work?

The Hib vaccine works by causing your body to make antibodies against certain germs. Antibodies are special cells in your blood that protect your body and fight infection. After you receive the Hib vaccine, these antibodies remember the Hib germs. Once you are exposed to these types of germs, your body quickly recognizes them. The antibodies become active and your body is better able to fight the germs.

How is the Hib vaccine given?

The Hib vaccine is often given as a single shot that also contains other vaccines.

• Infants and small children will usually be given a shot in their thigh muscle.
  
  
• Older children and adults will usually be given shots in their upper arm muscle.

Who should get the Hib vaccine?

• Infants and children ages 2 months through 4 years: Infants and children 2 months through 4 years of age should receive the Hib vaccine. All infants, including those who were born prematurely, should start receiving the Hib vaccine at 2 months of age.
  
  
• Persons 5 years old or older: Hib vaccine is usually not given to people 5 years of age or older. This is because most people may already have antibodies against Hib infections from an earlier exposure to the Hib bacteria.
  
  
• Persons with a weak immune system: People who have a weak immune system may need the Hib vaccine. The immune system is the part of the body that fights off sickness and disease. Caregivers may recommend 1 dose of the Hib vaccine to anyone 5 years of age or older who has a weak immune system and has not been previously vaccinated.
  
  
  • If you have any of the following conditions, you should receive 1 dose of the Hib vaccine if you have not had this vaccine before:
    
    
    • HIV or AIDS
      
      
    • Leukemia (cancer of blood cells)
      
      
    • Sickle cell disease
      
      
    • Surgery to remove the spleen (an organ that helps fight infection)
    
    
  • If you have received a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), you should receive a 3 dose series of the Hib vaccine starting 6 months after your transplant.

When should the Hib vaccine be given?

The number and timing of Hib vaccine doses will depend on your age and type of Hib vaccine to be given. The schedule may also depend on whether you received previous shots.

• Infants and children: Infants and children need 3 to 4 doses. The first dose can be given as early as 6 weeks of age. Hib shots are usually given at the following times:
  
  
  • The first dose at 2 months
    
    
  • A second dose at 4 months
    
    
  • A third dose at 6 months
    
    
  • A final dose at 12 to 15 months
  
  

What if my child missed a shot of Hib vaccine?

Ask your child's caregiver what to do if Hib vaccines are missed.

Who should not get the Hib vaccine?

People who are at a higher risk of having bad effects from Hib vaccine should not get the vaccine. These people may not get the Hib vaccine at all or may need to receive the vaccine at a later date.

• You should not get the Hib vaccine if you had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any of the following:
  
  
  • Previous shot of the Hib vaccine
    
    
  • Contents of the Hib vaccine, such as gelatin, thiomersal (mercury), or a type of protein carrier
    
    
  • Latex: Ask your caregiver if there is a vaccine available without latex
  
  
• The Hib vaccine should be delayed when:
  
  
  • An infant is younger than 6 weeks old
    
    
  • The person is moderately ill or very ill, with or without a fever. Wait until you recover from your illness. Having colds or other mild diseases should not stop you from getting Hib vaccine. Ask your caregiver if you have questions about waiting to get the vaccine.

Will those who get the Hib vaccine still get sick?

Hib vaccine only prevents infections that are caused by Haemophilus type b bacteria. Type b causes most Haemophilus influenza-related diseases. Hib infections may be prevented in most people who receive the Hib vaccine.

What are the risks of getting the Hib vaccine?

The area where the injection was given may be swollen, tender, or painful.

What are the signs and symptoms of an allergic response to the Hib vaccine?

A serious allergic reaction may have any of the following signs and symptoms:

• Redness or swelling of the face
  
  
• Hives (red, itchy bumps that may cause the skin to feel like it is burning)
  
  
• Rash that spreads over the body
  
  
• Weakness or dizziness
  
  
• Swelling of the mouth and throat
  
  
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
  
  
• Loss of consciousness (passing out)

Where can I get more information on the Hib vaccine?

• The National Immunization Program Public Inquiries
  1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop E-05
  Atlanta , GA 30333
  Phone: 1- 800 - 232-4636
  Web Address: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/
  

When should I contact my caregiver?

Contact your caregiver if:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have increased redness or swelling around the area where the shot was given.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about the Hib vaccine.

When should I seek immediate help?

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have hives (red, itchy bumps that may cause your skin to feel like it is burning).
  
  
• You have a rash that spreads over your body.
  
  
• You have redness or swelling of the face.
  
  
• You have weakness, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, or chest pain.
  
  
• You have swelling of the mouth and throat.
  
  
• You are wheezing or have trouble breathing.
  
  
• You lose consciousness (pass out).

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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