Haemophilus-B influenza (HIB) is a bacteria that causes life-threatening meningitis in young babies and toddlers. Before this immunization became available in the mid-1980šs, 1 in 200 children would become significantly ill from this bacteria. A significant percentage would have permanent disability or die.

This immunization was originally given as a single shot to children after 15 months of age. In 1990 the shot was released for use in small infants and it is now given on a schedule similar to that used for the DPT with two or three shots before a year and a booster at 12-15 months. In our office we administer HIB in combination with Hepatitis B vaccine. It is available seperately.

Advantages to the shot: This immunization offers protection against the bacteria that is most commonly associated with meningitis in infants and toddlers.

Disadvatages to the shot: Infants experience possible soreness at the site of injection. A small percentage of babies may not develop immunity after a complete series. Reactions such as a low fever, irritability or redness at the injection site are reported in less than 3% of infants getting the shot.

There is no mercury in the HIB single or combined shots.

Recommendation: The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Center for Disease Control both suggest that children be immunized starting at the age of two months. We follow this recommendation.

The official Center for Disease Control handout for HIB is available through the CDC Vaccine Information Statements site. You should review it before getting the HIB vaccine for your child.

Ted Humphry, M.D. 822-2441

updated 2/05

return Home Page