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Haemophilus Influenzae Type B

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The bacteria Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) can cause serious illnesses, including pneumonia (infecting the lungs), epiglottitis (infecting the tissue at the back of the throat), and meningitis (infecting the tissues around the brain and spinal cord). The Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine has dramatically decreased the cases of serious illness caused by the bacteria.

Most serious Hib disease affects children between 6 months and 1 year of age. Symptoms include a sore throat and fever. Until a few years ago, Haemophilus influenzae type b was the number one cause of meningitis and epiglottitis in young children.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.