Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterium that causes severe infections, particularly in young children. It is known for causing diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis. The Hib vaccine protects against these diseases by inducing immunity against the bacterial capsule, composed of polyribosyl ribitol phosphate (PRP). Hib does not survive outside the human body and is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Its virulence is primarily due to its polysaccharide capsule. The Hib vaccine is part of routine childhood immunization schedules worldwide. It is a gram-negative coccobacillus requiring specific growth factors (hemin and NAD) in vitro.

Other names

Haemophilus influenzae type BHib diseaseHaemophilus influenzae serotype b

Vaccines induce immunity by stimulating the production of antibodies against the capsular polysaccharide of Hib. Antibiotics target bacterial cell wall synthesis or protein synthesis.