Meningitis Vaccine

This vaccine (immunization) prevents childhood Haemophilus influenzae B infections, which can cause a severe and potentially fatal illness.

Alternative Names

Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine; Vaccine - Hib; Haemophilus influenzae B conjugate vaccine

Information

IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE

The Hib vac cine is one of the recommended childhood immunizations. Generally, states require proof that a child has received the vaccine prior to entry into daycare or preschool.

• Infants and toddlers should receive injections of the vaccine at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 12-15 months of age.
• Children over 5 years of age and adults do not need to receive immunization for Haemophilus influenzae type b unless they have certain medical conditions, including HIV, sickle cell disease, and some others. Ask your doctor if this applies to your child.

BENEFITS

Hib vaccine has been a great public health success story. The vast majority of infants receiving 3 doses of the Hib vaccine gain long-term protection against the illnesses caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria. These illnesses include meningitis, pneumonia, and infections of the blood, bones, and joints. Serious Haemophilus influenzae type b infections are most common in children 6 to 12 months old, but may also occur in older children.

RISKS

Most infants who receive the Hib vaccine will have no bad side effects. Others may have minor problems, such as soreness and redness at the injection site or a mild fever. Serious problems associated with receiving the immunization are rare and are mainly due to allergic reactions to vaccine components.

DELAY OR DO NOT GIVE (CONTRAINDICATION)

• If your child has an illness more serious than a cold, immunizations may be delayed.
• If severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis occurs after an injection of the Hib vaccine, no further Haemophilus influenzae type b immunization should be given to the child.

AFTER RECEIVING THE VACCINATION

Watch for and be familiar with how to treat minor side effects, such as injection site tenderness or low-grade fever. Call your health care provider if:

• You are not sure if the Haemophilus b vaccine should be delayed, withheld, or given to a specific infant
• Moderate or serious side effects appear after the Hib injection has been given
• There are any questions or concerns related to the Haemophilus b immunization