Haemophilus influenzae B vaccine

The Haemophilus influenzae B (Hib) vaccine is a conjugate vaccine used to prevent infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria. These bacteria can lead to severe, life-threatening illnesses such as meningitis, pneumonia, epiglottitis, cellulitis, septic arthritis, and infections of the blood, bones, and joints. The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the polyribosyl ribitol phosphate (PRP) capsule of the Hib bacterium. Modern Hib vaccines are conjugate vaccines, where the PRP polysaccharide is chemically linked to a protein carrier (such as tetanus toxoid, diphtheria toxoid, or meningococcal outer membrane protein) to enhance the immune response, especially in young children. This conjugation allows for T-cell recruitment, leading to a stronger and more lasting immune response, including the formation of memory B cells. The vaccine is administered intramuscularly and is a routine childhood vaccination recommended by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Its widespread use has significantly reduced the incidence of Hib diseases.

Brand names

ActHIBHiberixPedvaxHIBProhibitHibTITERBioHibHibePeda HibVaxem-HibPentacelVaxelisComvaxMenHibRixQuinvaxemHexaxim

Other names

Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccineHaemophilus b conjugate vaccine