Haemophilus influenzae Type b Vaccine

The Hib vaccine is given as an injection into a muscle. As a part of routine childhood vaccinations, doses are given at age 2 months and 4 months or at age 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months, depending on which formulation is used. In either case, a final dose is given at age 12 to 15 months (for a total of 3 or 4 doses). (See CDC: Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule by Age).

All children should be vaccinated.

The Hib vaccine is also recommended for older children, adolescents, and adults who were not vaccinated and who are at increased risk of this infection, such as the following:

• People who do not have a spleen or their spleen does not work well

• People who have had stem cell transplantation

If people have a temporary illness, doctors usually wait to give the vaccine until the illness resolves (see also CDC: Who Should NOT Get Vaccinated With These Vaccines?).

Occasionally, the injection site becomes sore, swollen, and red. After being vaccinated, children may have a fever, cry, and be irritable.

The following English-language resources may be useful. Please note that THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of these resources.

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Hib vaccine information statement

2. CDC: Who Should NOT Get Vaccinated with these Vaccines?

3. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC): Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Infection: Recommended vaccinations