Skip to content

Haemophilus Influenzae Type B

Top of the page

Haemophilus Influenzae Type B

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.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.