Haemophilus influenzae type B

What is Hib?

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterium that can cause a range of infections, from mild to severe. The disease occurs worldwide.

How is Hib transmitted?

Hib is primarily transmitted through direct deposition of infectious respiratory particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted via contact with contaminated surfaces,such as when a person touches these contaminated surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

The incubation period typically ranges from 2 to 4 days.

What are the symptoms of Hib?

Hib infections can range from mild illness (e.g. ear infection, upper respiratory tract infection) to severe illness (e.g. infection of the lungs or infection of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord). The symptoms of Hib infection depend on the site of infection and include the following:

• Ear infection: Ear pain, fever and sleepiness, red and swollen ear drum.

• Upper respiratory tract infection: Cough, sore throat, fever and difficulty breathing.

• Lower respiratory tract infection: Bronchitis (inflammation of the lining of the main airways in lungs) and pneumonia (lung infection).

• Meningitis (inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord): Confusion, poor appetite, headache, nausea and/or vomiting, and neck stiffness.

• Skin infection: Pain and redness over the affected area(s) of skin, swelling and skin that is warm to the touch.

• Joint and bone infection: Symptoms vary depending on the joint affected (e.g. knee, shoulder), but commonly include pain and difficulty in moving the affected joint.

Hib infection can lead to complications, including long-term problems such as brain damage or hearing loss. In severe cases, it can progress to multiple organ failure, which can lead to death.

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors include:

• Children below 5 years of age and persons aged 65 years or above.

• Persons who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated against Hib. Persons who have had their spleen removed or have a non-functional spleen. Persons with weakened immune systems

• Persons travelling or living in areas with ongoing transmission or outbreaks

How is Hib treated?

Patients are given antibiotics to treat the infection. Other treatments would include those that manage and relieve the symptoms of the disease.

How to prevent Hib?

Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure for Hib. The Hib vaccine is recommended under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS).

Other preventive measures include:

• Practise good personal hygiene at all times.

• Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirty from coughing or sneezing.

• Avoid touching your face, including eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid sharing of food/drinks or eating utensils.

• Wear a mask and seeking medical attention promptly when unwell.

Please refer to Health advice for travellers for additional precautions to take when travelling.