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News: Hib, a once-controlled childhood illness, is re-emerging in the United States due to declining childhood Hib vaccination rates, weakening community protection.
About Hib Disease
- Hib stands for Haemophilus influenzae type b, and it is a deadly bacterial infection that previously caused widespread illness and death among young children.
- Caused by: The disease is caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria.
- Target Group: The disease mainly affects children under 5 years of age, who are the most vulnerable group.
- Transmission: It spreads person-to-person through respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing) and prolonged close contact.
- Symptoms:
- It can lead to life-threatening conditions such as meningitis, pneumonia, epiglottitis, and sepsis.
- Common symptoms include high fever, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, sensitivity to light, and confusion.
- The disease can become fatal within hours if not treated promptly.
- Prevention: Effective Hib vaccine is available, and maintaining routine immunization is essential to prevent the disease.
- Treatment: The disease is treated with antibiotics, including third-generation cephalosporins like ceftriaxone, although antibiotic resistance is a growing concern.
- India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP): Hib is included as part of the Pentavalent Vaccine, which protects against five diseases: Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Hib.
