Overview
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease is caused by bacteria called Haemophilus influenza. This bacteria can cause many different kinds of infections, from mild to severe, most commonly affecting children under 5 years old and adults with certain medical conditions. There is a vaccine to prevent disease from one type of H. influenzae, type b or Hib.
Childhood Recommendations
Depending on the vaccine brand, Hib vaccine is given in three or four doses.
Infants should get their first dose at 2 months and will complete the series by 12–15 months.
Children between 12 months and 5 years old who haven’t been completely vaccinated should get at least one dose of Hib vaccine.
Children over 5 years old don’t usually need to be vaccinated. The vaccine may be recommended for adults who have a damaged or removed spleen, sickle cell disease, or have recently had a bone marrow transplant.
The vaccine may also be recommended for children aged 5–18 with HIV.
Adult recommendations
Adults don’t usually need to be vaccinated.
The vaccine may be recommended for adults who have a damaged or removed spleen, sickle cell disease, or have recently had a bone marrow transplant.
Immunization schedules
Childhood schedules:
Adult schedule:
Additional information about the Hib vaccine
Hib Vaccine Information Statement
CDC’s Haemophilus influenzae Disease main page