|
Hib
Disease Vaccines
Introduction
Before the introduction of Hib conjugate vaccines, Hib was the leading
cause of bacterial meningitis and mental retardation in US children. Almost
all cases of Hib disease occurred in children who were less than 5 years
old; two thirds of these cases were among children who were less than
18 months of age.1,2
While Hib disease incidence has declined dramatically since the introduction
of Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) conjugate vaccines in
1987, it continues to pose a serious threat to US children due to the
continued circulation of the bacteria in the general population. The potential
complications of Hib disease can jeopardize a child’s ability to
talk, walk, or perform daily activities by himself or herself.1,2
Therefore, continued vigilance and childhood Hib vaccination remain essential
parts of effective disease control in the United States.3
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines “teach” the immune system how to recognize and
fight bacteria … [MORE] |
|
|
What is a “conjugate” Hib vaccine?
Hib bacteria possess an outer coating of sugar molecules called …
[MORE] |
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
How effective are Hib vaccines?
Hib disease has decreased by 99% … [MORE] |
|
|
Are the Hib vaccines safe?
Yes. Conjugate Hib vaccines have a good safety record … [MORE] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sources:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: The Pink Book. 9th ed. Washington,DC: Public Health Foundation; 2006:111-123.
2. CDC. National Immunization Program. What would happen if
we stopped vaccinations? Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/fs/gen/WhatIfStop.htm.
Accessed June 22, 2006.
3. Watt JP, Levine OS, Santosham M. Global reduction
of Hib disease: what are the next steps?
J Pediatr. 2003:143(suppl):163-185.
|
