Haemophilus

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) causes bacterial meningitis and other serious infections.

Meningitis is an infection of the tissue and fluid that cover the brain and spinal cord.

The infection was originally named Haemophilus influenzae because it was incorrectly thought to cause influenza (the flu).

To avoid confusion, the bacteria are commonly called Hib. Without treatment, all children with Hib meningitis die. Even with treatment, death occurs in about 1 out of 20 cases. About 1 in every 3 survivors has detectable brain damage.

The dramatic decreases in Hib infections are an immunization success story. While the risk is low in Canada, it is important to keep immunizations up to date.

For more information on Hib meningitis please visit the links below:

Public Health Agency of Canada

British Columbia Centre for Disease and Control

World Health Organization Immunization

World Health Organization Media Centre

The Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness & Promotion