Protection that helps keep young children safe from serious infections
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a dangerous bacteria spread through the air—often from people who carry the bacteria in their nose or throat and don’t realize it. While many infected individuals do not appear sick, Hib can cause life threatening illness, especially in young children.
Hib can lead to meningitis, a severe infection of the brain and spinal cord that may cause permanent hearing loss or brain damage. It can also lead to pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and severe swelling in the throat that can block breathing. Before routine vaccination, Hib was a leading cause of serious illness in children under 5.
Thanks to widespread vaccination, Hib infections are now much less common in the United States. However, the disease still causes severe illness and death in children in many parts of the world.
At Marshfield Clinic, our Family Medicine and Pediatric providers help ensure children receive the Hib vaccine on schedule to stay fully protected.
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Call: (866) 250-2510; Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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You can view your immunization history by logging into My Marshfield Clinic.
Symptoms
Hib infections can present in several ways, depending on where the bacteria spread. Symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Irritability or lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
- Cough
- Severe sore throat
- Signs of meningitis, such as stiff neck, headache, or sensitivity to light
Seek medical care immediately if your child shows signs of severe illness.
Possible Complications
Hib can cause serious and sometimes life threatening complications, including:
- Meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord)
- Permanent hearing loss
- Brain damage
- Pneumonia
- Bloodstream infections
- Severe throat swelling that can block breathing
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent these complications.
Who's Most at Risk?
Hib most commonly affects:
- Children under 5 years old
- Babies and toddlers who are not vaccinated
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
Timely vaccination helps protect children during the ages when they are most vulnerable.
Vaccine Recommendations
All children should receive three or four doses of the Hib vaccine (depending on the vaccine brand), beginning at 2 months of age.
Your child's provider will follow the recommended schedule to ensure full protection.
Adult vaccination may be recommended in rare cases for people with certain medical conditions or those who have had their spleen removed.
How Marshfield Clinic Supports You
Our Pediatric and Family Medicine teams help families:
- Understand the importance of Hib vaccination
- Stay on schedule with well child visits
- Review immunization records and catch up if needed
- Receive clear, supportive answers to vaccine questions
We're here to make preventive care simple, reassuring, and accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hib vaccine safe?
Yes. Hib vaccines have been used for decades and are closely monitored for safety. Most side effects are mild, such as soreness at the injection site.
Can adults get Hib?
Adults can get Hib, but it is rare. Certain medical conditions—like immune compromise or removal of the spleen—may require vaccination.
Why do infants need multiple doses?
Young children are at the highest risk for severe Hib disease. Multiple doses help build strong and lasting protection.