$Unique_ID{BRK00126}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites}
$Title{What is HIB?}
$Subject{flu HIB infants immunization}
$Volume{A-5}
$Log{
Flu and Strep*0008501.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is HIB?


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QUESTION:  Our doctor is strongly recommending that we vaccinate our infant
against a disease he calls "Hib", and sometimes "the flu".  We thought flu
shots were recommended for older folks, and fear that a powerful vaccine like
that could cause serious damage to our child.  Can you help us out of our
problem?

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ANSWER:  The problem will be less difficult to solve once we clear up the
meanings of a few terms, and unknot a few misunderstandings.  The name HIB
comes from the abbreviation of Haemophilis Influenzae B, the bacteria that is
the leading cause of serious, generalized infections in infants and children.
This fearful germ can cause many types of infections in our bodies, such as
pneumonia, meningitis, cellulitis, pus forming arthritis, and infections of
the tissues covering the heart.  The germs are frequently seen in the blood
stream, a condition known as bacteremia, which allows the infection to
penetrate to every part of the body.  Children under five years of age are
most prone to the development of these infections, and about 1 out of every
1000 children will suffer from a HIB disease.  It is most frequent in 6 month
to 12 month old infants, and about 65% of all cases occur under the age of 18
months.  It is highly infectious, in these youngsters particularly in groups
such as nursery schools and day care centers.  Although we can prevent the
spread of the disease to individuals who have been in contact with an infected
individual, using an antibiotic called rifampin, it is not 100% effective.  In
addition HIB meningitis causes death about 5% of the time, and frequent
serious neurological problems often result.  However, the use of HIB
vaccinations still remain somewhat controversial, since, although they are
safe, with minimal side effects, their effectiveness is not as great as we
wish it to be.  It is important for you to know that the Immunization
Practices Advisory Committee and the American Academy of Pediatrics do
recommend that a vaccine, PRP-D (a HIB vaccine linked with diphtheria toxoid)
be administered to children at 18 months of age.  So its not the annual, adult
flu shot your physician is advising, and he certainly is right in line with
the latest recommendations for your child's care.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
