Hib is a bacterium that is a normal part of the upper respiratory tract (windpipe, back of mouth and nose).
However, Hib can cause infections such as bacterial meningitis, epiglottitis, joint infection/arthritis, and pneumonia most commonly in young, unvaccinated children less than 5 years of age and people with underlying medical conditions.
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B) is uncommon because most children are vaccinated.
Hib bacteria is spread through droplets from your nose or throat through coughing and sneezing. You can catch Hib:
A person does not need to have symptoms to spread Hib. This is due to Hib bacteria living in the throat of some people without causing symptoms.
Symptoms can appear 2 to 4 days after catching Hib.
The symptoms depend on which part of the body has been affected. Hib infection can cause infections such as pneumonia, meningitis and epiglottitis. Up to 30 per cent of individuals who survive Hib disease have permanent neurological complications or conditions as a result of their infection.
Meningitis, epiglottitis, pneumonia, osteomyelitis and septic arthritis and cellulitis.
Meningitis, epiglottitis and pneumonia can develop very quickly and can be fatal if not treated.
Hib immunisation is recommended as part of the routine childhood immunisation.
Your child is due for their first Hib vaccination at 6 weeks. Refer to the WA Immunisation Schedule for detailed information, or speak to a health professional.
In WA, the Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccine is free for children and eligible people (including humanitarian entrants and refugees) under 20 years old.
For more information, refer to the WA Immunisation Schedule for detailed information, or speak to a health professional.
Find more information about Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B) including where to get vaccinated in WA.
