What Is the Hib Vaccine?

The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria (Hib). The bacteria had been the leading cause of meningitis in children younger than 5 years old until the Hib vaccine became available. Hib also used to be a common cause of infections in the ears, lungs, blood, skin, and joints in children.

When Do Kids Get the Hib Vaccine?

Kids get the Hib vaccine as a shot at ages:

• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months (however, some of the Hib vaccines do not require a dose at 6 months)
• 12–15 months (a booster dose)

Kids ages 15 months through 5 years old who are getting the vaccine for the first time usually only need one dose.

Children ages 12 months through 5 years old may need more doses if their immune systems are weak due to things like asplenia (when the spleen is missing or not working properly), HIV infection, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment.

The vaccine is not routinely recommended for kids older than 5 unless they have a condition that weakens the immune system and have never been vaccinated. Kids who already had the vaccine might need it again after a stem cell transplant.

Sometimes doctors give the Hib vaccine in combination (in the same shot) with other vaccines, such as DTaP, IPV, or HepB vaccines.

Why Is the Hib Vaccine Recommended?

The vaccine provides long-term protection from Haemophilus influenzae type b. Those who are vaccinated have protection against many different infections, including Hib meningitis; pneumonia; pericarditis (an infection of the membrane covering the heart); and infections of the blood, bones, and joints caused by the bacteria.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Hib Vaccine?

The vaccine can cause mild side effects, such as a fever; and pain, redness, or swelling in the area where the shot was given. As with any vaccine, there is a small risk of fainting, and a very small chance of an allergic reaction.

The Hib vaccine contains only a small piece of the germ, so it can't cause Hib disease.

When to Delay or Avoid the Hib Vaccine

Simple colds or other minor illnesses should not prevent vaccination, but your doctor might choose to reschedule the vaccine if your child has a more serious illness.

Talk to your doctor about whether the vaccine is a good idea if your child has ever had a serious allergic reaction, or any allergic reaction to a previous Hib vaccine.

They may choose not to give the vaccine, or to postpone it until a later visit.

Caring for Your Child After the Hib Vaccine

For pain or fever, check with your doctor to see if you can give either acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and to find out the right dose.

A warm, damp cloth or a heating pad on the site of the shot may help reduce soreness, as can moving or using the arm or leg.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Call your doctor if:

• You aren't sure if the vaccine should be postponed or avoided.
• There are problems after the vaccination.