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Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Vaccine
Vaccine schedule
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2 months
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4 months
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6 months
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1 year
The Disease
The bacterium Haemophilus influenzae B causes meningitis, bloodstream infection (sepsis), and pneumonia. Symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, vomiting, and confusion. Complications of the disease can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, leading to developmental delays, seizures, and deafness.
Most patients are children up to age 4–5. About 7.5% of them may die from the diseases caused by the bacterium. About one-third of children who become ill will have a disability.
The Vaccine
The Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine is given as part of the 5-in-1 vaccine (DTaP-Hib-IPV), which also includes vaccines against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and polio (poliomyelitis), as part of the routine immunization schedule for infants and children. Currently, due to an increase in pertussis and polio cases, the first dose of the 5-in-1 vaccine has been moved up to 6 weeks of age.
Separate vaccines are also available for use in cases of sensitivity to one of the components of the combination vaccine. You can consult a Family Care Center nurse about the possibility or need to administer the vaccines separately for any reason.
| Vaccine composition | How the vaccine is given |
| Components of the bacterial capsule | Up to age 3, by injection into the thigh; from age 3, by injection into the arm |
Impact of the vaccine in Israel: In 1994, the Haemophilus influenzae B vaccine was introduced into Israel's routine immunization schedule. Since then, the number of cases of meningitis caused by this bacterium has decreased from about 100 cases a year to only a few cases among people who were not vaccinated.
Duration of protection
After completing the full series of childhood vaccinations, long-term protection is generally achieved.
After receiving the 5-in-1 vaccine, which includes the vaccine against Haemophilus influenzae B, side effects may occur. Most are mild and go away on their own within a day or two.
- Redness, pain, and swelling at the injection site: You can place a clean cloth soaked in lukewarm water on the area, and avoid massaging or rubbing it.
- Fever: You can give medication to reduce fever and relieve pain.
- Feeling generally unwell: There may be loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, prolonged crying, diarrhea, restlessness, or drowsiness. You can give medication to reduce fever and relieve pain.
Seizures within 3 days of receiving the vaccine: Seizures are usually associated with a rise in body temperature. They are not considered dangerous and do not cause permanent neurological damage. However, it is important to seek medical attention.
After receiving the 5-in-1 vaccine, which includes the vaccine against Haemophilus influenzae B, side effects may occur. Most are mild and go away on their own within a day or two.
Common Side Effects
- Redness, pain, and swelling at the injection site: You can place a clean cloth soaked in lukewarm water on the area, and avoid massaging or rubbing it.
- Fever: You can give medication to reduce fever and relieve pain.
- Feeling generally unwell: There may be loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, prolonged crying, diarrhea, restlessness, or drowsiness. You can give medication to reduce fever and relieve pain.
Rare Side Effects
Seizures within 3 days of receiving the vaccine: Seizures are usually associated with a rise in body temperature. They are not considered dangerous and do not cause permanent neurological damage. However, it is important to seek medical attention.
When to Contact Your HMO or a Medical Center After Vaccination
- If your child seems apathetic.
- If your child has a fever that does not go away within 24–48 hours.
- If there are changes in appetite or eating patterns that do not go away within 24–48 hours.
- If seizures occur, they are usually related to a rise in body temperature, but it is important to seek medical evaluation.
- If you notice anything that causes you concern or worry.