Prevent pneumonia and meningitis... with the Hib vaccine!

Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) is a bacterium that can cause serious diseases such as meningitis, bloodstream infections, pneumonia, arthritis, and middle ear infections. It is commonly found in young children, especially those under 2 years old, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly.

Who is at risk of severe Hib disease?

Severe Hib disease is often found in young children, especially those under 2 years old, immunocompromised individuals, those without a spleen, people with chronic diseases, and the elderly. Hib bacteria reside in the human respiratory tract and spread from person to person through airborne droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs and there is direct contact with respiratory secretions.

How is Hib infection treated?

Hib infection can be treated with antimicrobial drugs and can also be prevented with vaccines. The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society of Thailand recommends that children under 24 months receive this vaccine, especially those at risk such as those in crowded places or daycare centers. For those over 24 months, vaccination is recommended if the immune system is compromised, such as in cases of asplenia or abnormal spleen function.

The Hib vaccine can be started as early as 6 weeks of age. The number of doses depends on the age at the first vaccination. Hib vaccines are available in both combination and single forms. The combination vaccine includes diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP), polio, and hepatitis B vaccines, which can be administered together in one injection.

Who “should” get vaccinated?

• • Children at risk of Hib infection, such as those in daycare centers or living in crowded communities
  • Children at risk of severe Hib infection, such as those with thalassemia, without a spleen, or with immunodeficiency
  • Healthy children under 2 years old who want to reduce the risk of severe Hib infection

“Contraindications” for vaccination

• • Not to be used in individuals allergic to this vaccine or any of its components
  • If the person has a fever or acute illness, vaccination should be postponed until recovery. Mild colds without fever are not a contraindication for vaccination

Possible side effects after Hib vaccination

• • Severe allergic reactions may occur but are very rare. Most people who receive the Hib vaccine do not experience any problems
  • Common reactions after vaccination include pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site. Other symptoms such as loss of appetite, restlessness, and diarrhea may occur but are usually mild and resolve within 1-2 days
  • If there is pain or swelling at the injection site, apply a cold compress. For low-grade fever, antipyretics can be taken. If other unusual symptoms occur, consult a doctor

Note:

• • There is insufficient data on vaccination in pregnant and breastfeeding women