What’s a Hib vaccine?

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A Hib immunization is an injection that helps protect against infection with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria. It typically works by prompting the immune system to create antibodies against the bacteria, which can help a person fight off the infection if they come into contact with the bacteria later. Usually given as a series of shots, Hib immunization is typically recommended in early childhood, as children younger than five years of age are most at risk of Hib infection. While generally considered safe for most people, there is a chance of experiencing certain side effects from a Hib immunization, and there are some people for whom experts do not recommend it.

As with most vaccines, a Hib immunization aims to mimic the body’s natural immune response. When a person becomes infected with Hib, their immune system creates special antibodies designed to help fight the bacteria, although serious health problems, such as meningitis, pneumonia, and even death, can result as the bacteria spread throughout the body the sooner this immune response fully kicks in. A Hib immunization can help prevent such complications by prompting the body to create Hib antibodies before an infection actually exists. It does this by introducing a small amount of inactive Hib into the body, which prompts the immune system to create the targeted antibodies but doesn’t actually cause Hib infection. If a person later comes into contact with Hib, they should be able to avoid becoming seriously ill because the immune system will be able to fight off the bacteria right from the start.

The Hib vaccination series is usually given in early childhood. This is because Hib most commonly affects children under the age of five. To ensure long-lasting immunity against Hib, health care professionals generally recommend that infants receive several doses of the vaccine given over a period of about a year, often starting at two months of age. There are several versions of the Hib vaccine, and the exact number and timing of doses needed can vary depending on which version is used. In addition to young children, experts may also recommend the Hib vaccination series for people with weakened immune systems, such as those who have HIV or are undergoing chemotherapy.

Many people who receive a Hib immunization experience no side effects. If side effects do occur, they are usually mild and may include low-grade fever and swelling where the injection was given. In rare cases, serious side effects can occur, such as allergic reactions, seizures, and trouble breathing. Experts generally advise against further doses of the Hib vaccine in people who have had an allergic reaction. They also generally recommend against giving a Hib immunization to infants younger than six weeks of age and to people who are more than mildly ill at the time vaccination is being considered.

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