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Immunization protects you from disease.
Get protected, get immunized. - Vaccines make your immune system stronger by building antibodies, which help prevent diseases.
- Immunization is safe. It is much safer to get immunized than to get this disease.
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Who should have Hib vaccine?
This vaccine is given to children less than 5 years of age who need Hib vaccine but do not need the other parts of a combined vaccine.
The vaccine is given to older children and adults with a high risk of disease because of health problems (e.g., no spleen, weak immune system, cochlear implant).
How many doses of Hib vaccine are needed?
Children usually get 4 doses of Hib in a combined vaccine at 2, 4, 6 and 18 months of age.
For children who are off the routine schedule, the number of doses depends on the child’s age.
People with certain health problems (adults and children) need 1 dose given after the age of 5 years.
More doses may be needed after a bone marrow transplant.
How well does the vaccine work?
Protection is about 95% to 100%, but it may be less in people with weakened immune systems.
Where can I get the vaccine?
The vaccine is given at a
public health office in your area.
Are there side effects from Hib vaccine?
Reactions to the vaccine are usually mild and go away in a few days. They may include:
- redness, swelling, and discomfort where the needle was given
- crying, feeling tired, irritable
- fever
- poor appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea
It is important to stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after immunization because people can have a rare but serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If anaphylaxis happens, you will be given medicine to treat the symptoms.
Unusual reactions can happen. Call Health Link at 811 to report any unusual reactions.
How can I manage side effects?
- To help with discomfort and swelling, put a cool, wet cloth over the area.
- If you need fever or pain medicine, check with your pharmacist or doctor. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 19 years old because it can cause serious health problems.
- Some people with health problems (e.g. weak immune system) must call their doctor whenever they get a fever. If you have been told to do this, call your doctor-even if you think the fever was due to immunization.
Is there anyone who cannot have Hib vaccine?
You may not be able to get the vaccine if you:
- have an allergy to parts of the vaccine—always tell your healthcare provider about allergies.
- had a severe or unusual reaction after this vaccine (or a similar one)—always tell your healthcare provider if you have had reactions.
You can be immunized if you have a mild illness (e.g., cold), even if you have a fever.
For More Information
Quick Facts: Haemophilus Influenzae Type B
What it is
- a bacteria that can cause meningitis (infection of the covering of the brain and spinal cord) and other serious infections (e.g., blood)
- can lead to lifelong disabilities and death
Who is most at risk
Most serious infections happen in people who:
- are 4 years of age or younger
- have a weak immune system
- have no spleen or a spleen that is not working properly
- have a cochlear implant
How it spreads
- spread by coughing or sneezing
- some people do not have symptoms, but can spread the disease
