Hib Disease

Hib disease, short for Haemophilus influenzae type b disease, is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Haemophilus influenzae type b. This pathogen primarily affects young children, particularly those under the age of five, and can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, and epiglottitis. Hib disease was once a leading cause of bacterial meningitis and other invasive infections in young children before the introduction of the Hib vaccine. However, in regions where vaccination rates are low, Hib disease remains a significant public health concern. Timely immunization with the Hib vaccine is essential for preventing this potentially life-threatening illness and protecting vulnerable populations, highlighting the importance of vaccination efforts in maintaining community health and safety.