HIB Vaccination in India

Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) bacteria spread through respiratory droplets when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or talk. Close contact with respiratory secretions and sharing contaminated objects can also contribute to transmission. Hib primarily spreads from person to person, particularly among young children in close-contact settings. The bacteria do not commonly infect animals or persist in the environment. Vaccination has greatly reduced the transmission and incidence of Hib infections.

The symptoms of Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) disease can vary depending on the specific type of infection. The most common form is invasive Hib disease, which can manifest as:

·        Meningitis: Symptoms may include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, and altered mental status. In infants, symptoms may also include irritability, poor feeding, and a bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the head).

·        Pneumonia: Symptoms can include fever, cough, rapid or difficult breathing, chest pain, and fatigue.

·        Sepsis: Signs and symptoms may include high fever, chills, rapid breathing and heart rate, low blood pressure, and overall feeling of illness. Severe cases of sepsis can lead to organ failure.

·        Cellulitis: This is a skin infection characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness of the affected area.

It's important to note that not all individuals infected with Hib will develop symptoms, as some may carry the bacteria without showing any signs of illness.

Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) disease can be severe, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. It can cause life-threatening conditions such as meningitis, pneumonia, sepsis, and other invasive infections. If infected, prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment are important.

The following groups of individuals are at an increased risk of developing Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) disease:

·        Young children: Children under the age of 5 are most susceptible to Hib disease, especially those who have not been vaccinated or have not completed the recommended Hib vaccination series. Infants are particularly vulnerable due to their immature immune systems.

·        Unvaccinated individuals: Those who have not received the Hib vaccine or are not up to date with their vaccination schedule are at a higher risk of contracting Hib disease. Vaccination is an effective measure for preventing Hib infections.

·        Individuals with weakened immune systems: People with compromised immune systems, such as those with certain medical conditions (e.g., HIV/AIDS, cancer, immune deficiencies) or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, are more susceptible to Hib disease.

·        Crowded or close-contact settings: Living or working in close proximity to others, such as in daycare centers, schools, or crowded households, can increase the risk of Hib transmission and subsequent disease.

·        Individuals with certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as sickle cell disease or asplenia (absence of a spleen), can increase the risk of severe Hib disease.

Treatment for Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) disease involves prompt medical attention and the administration of appropriate antibiotics. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases.

Yes, Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) disease can be prevented through vaccination. The Hib vaccine is highly effective in reducing the risk of Hib infections and associated complications. Routine vaccination, along with good hygiene practices, helps prevent the spread of Hib bacteria and protects individuals, especially children, from Hib disease.

There are different types of Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccines, generally given in the form of combination vaccines. Here is a list of different combination of Hib vaccines available in India:

·        4 in 1 Vaccine (DTP-HiB)

This combination Vaccine protects against four diseases which are diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria (Hib).

·        5 in 1 Vaccine (DTP-HiB-Hep B)

This combination Vaccine protects against five diseases which are diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and Hepatitis-B.

·        6 in 1 Vaccine (DTP-HiB-Hep B-IPV)

The 6 in 1 vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects against six diseases in a single shot.

This vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Hepatitis-B and polio (inactivated polio virus).

Combination vaccines offer the advantage of providing protection against multiple diseases with fewer injections, simplifying the immunization process for infants and young children. Routine Hib vaccination has greatly reduced the severity and incidence of Hib disease.

Yes, the Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccine is considered safe. Extensive studies have shown it to have a well-established safety profile. Common side effects are mild and temporary, such as redness or swelling at the injection site. Serious adverse reactions are rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the potential risks.

The need for booster doses of the Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccine depends on the specific vaccine used and the immunization schedule followed. In most cases, a primary series of Hib vaccination is administered during infancy, usually consisting of three doses given at specific intervals, followed by a booster dose.

Additional booster doses of the Hib vaccine are generally not needed for healthy individuals who have completed the 3+1 series according to the recommended schedule. The primary series of Hib vaccination provides long-lasting immunity against Hib disease in most individuals.

In some situations, booster doses may be recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or those with compromised immune systems. It is important to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and refer to local immunization guidelines for specific recommendations regarding booster doses.

Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccination is highly effective in preventing Hib infections and related diseases. The vaccine has been shown to be over 90% effective in preventing invasive Hib disease, such as meningitis and bloodstream infections, in vaccinated individuals.

Hib vaccination provides long-lasting immunity and significantly reduces the risk of Hib infection. It not only protects vaccinated individuals but also helps in reducing the overall transmission of Hib bacteria within communities.

You can get the Hib vaccination by making an appointment with your doctor. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment at your nearest INVC Vaccination centre or request a home visit by the INVC Vaccination team to receive the vaccine at your convenience.