Haemophilus influenzae is a contagious bacterium that can cause lung and sinus problems, as well as serious infections of the brain, bones, and blood. It is most common in poor and underdeveloped countries, but childhood vaccinations and antibiotics are effective treatments. Meningitis is a rare but life-threatening complication. Vaccination efforts have reduced the disease in developed countries, but underprivileged people still experience high mortality rates.
Haemophilus influenzae is a highly contagious bacterium that is spread through direct contact with infected people. The bacteria can cause lung and sinus problems, and occasionally lead to serious infections of the brain, bones, and blood. Strains of Haemophilus influenzae are found worldwide and are a significant cause of disease and death in poor and underdeveloped countries. Most people in developed countries have access to childhood vaccinations against the pathogen. Treatment with oral or intravenous antibiotics is usually effective in clearing up active infections and preventing serious and life-threatening complications.
There are six recognizable strains of Haemophilus influenzae, all of which have the potential to cause health problems in humans. The most common strain, responsible for about 90% of infections, is Haemophilus influenzae type B. Infants and children younger than 10 are at the highest risk of infection because their immune systems are not yet strong enough to fight type B pathogens. Adults who have weak immune systems due to chronic diseases or cancer chemotherapy treatments are also at risk. Healthy adolescents and adults are unlikely to have active infections when exposed to the bacteria.
Most Haemophilus influenzae infections begin in the respiratory tract after breathing in pathogens from an infected person’s coughs or sneezes. Sinusitis or pneumonia can develop within a week of contact with the bacteria. A person may also have fever, chills, difficulty breathing, sinus congestion, and body aches. Without treatment, it is possible for the bacteria to spread to other parts of the body. Some individuals develop painful skin rashes, digestive tract problems, and even urinary tract infections.
Meningitis, a type of brain infection, is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of Haemophilus influenzae infestation. An infant or young child who develops meningitis may experience severe headaches, vision problems, nausea, vomiting, and mental confusion. A systemic infection can also occur once the bacteria make their way into the bloodstream, causing body aches and extreme fatigue.
Treatment for minor infections usually consists of a two-week to one-month course of oral antibiotics. After blood tests have confirmed that Haemophilus influenzae is responsible for your symptoms, a doctor may prescribe cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, or a similar antibiotic. Hospitalization and intensive care measures may be required if complications such as meningitis arise.
Mandatory government vaccination efforts have virtually eradicated Haemophilus influenzae diseases in most parts of the world. However, people living in poor and unhealthy conditions with little or no access to quality healthcare still experience high mortality rates. There are ongoing efforts by government agencies and non-profit goodwill organizations to provide underprivileged people with the education and medicines they need to prevent widespread epidemics.
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