The National Immunisation Program provides children with free immunisation against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). The first three doses of Hib vaccine are given at two, four and six months in a combination vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, polio and Hib. The fourth booster dose of Hib vaccine is given at 18 months of age
Overview of Hib
Before the introduction of immunisation in 1993, Hib was the most frequent cause of life-threatening infection in children under five years of age. Hib causes conditions such as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes covering the brain), epiglottitis (inflammation of the flap and the top of the windpipe) and pneumonia. These conditions can develop quickly and lead to death.
The disease caused by Hib is spread mainly through coughing or sneezing, or contact with secretions from the nose and throat of an infected person. Despite its name, Hib is a bacterium and is not a form of influenza (flu), which is caused by a virus. Immunisation is the best way to reduce the risk of infection in young children.
Hib immunisation
Hib immunisation requires several doses of the vaccine to get good protection, The first three doses of Hib vaccine are given to children at two, four and six months in a combination vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, polio and Hib.
The fourth booster dose of Hib vaccine is given at 18 months.
All of these immunisations are free of charge under the National Immunisation Program Schedule.
Pre-immunisation checklist
Before immunisation, tell your doctor or nurse if your child:
- Is unwell on the day of immunisation (has a temperature over 38.5°C)
- Has ever had a serious reaction to any vaccine
- Has had a serious reaction to any component of the vaccine
- Has had a severe allergy to anything
Side effects of the Hib vaccine
Vaccines against Hib bacteria are effective and safe, although all medications can have unwanted side effects.
Side effects from these vaccines are uncommon and are usually mild, but may include:
- Localised pain, redness and swelling at the injection site
- Occasionally, an injection-site lump (nodule) that may last many weeks, but treatment is not needed
- Low-grade temperature (fever)
- Loss of appetite
- Children can be unsettled, irritable, may cry, or be generally unhappy, drowsy and tired.
Managing fever after immunisation
Common side effects following immunisation are usually mild and temporary (occurring in the first few days after immunisation). Specific treatment is not usually required.
There are a number of treatment options that can reduce the side effects of the vaccine including:
- Drinking extra fluids and not overdressing if there is a fever
- Although routine use of paracetamol after vaccination is not recommended, if fever is present, paracetamol can be given – check the label for the correct dose or speak with your pharmacist, (especially when giving paracetamol to children).
Managing injection site discomfort
Many vaccine injections may result in soreness, redness, itching, swelling or burning at the injection site for one to two days. Paracetamol might be required to ease the discomfort.
Concerns about side effects
If the side effect following immunisation is unexpected, persistent or severe, or if you are worried about yourself or your child’s condition after a vaccination, see your doctor or immunisation nurse as soon as possible or go directly to a hospital. Immunisation side effects may be reported to SAEFVIC, the Victorian vaccine safety and central reporting service.
You can discuss with your immunisation provider how to report adverse events in other states or territories. It is also important to seek medical advice if you (or your child) are unwell, as this may be due to other illness, rather than because of the vaccination.
Rare side effects
There is a very small risk of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to any vaccine. This is why you are advised to stay at the clinic or medical surgery for at least 15 minutes following immunisation, in case further treatment is required. If any other reactions are severe and persistent, or if you are worried, contact your doctor for further information.
Immunisation and HALO
The immunisations you may need are decided by your health, age, lifestyle and occupation. Together, these factors are referred to as HALO.
Talk to your doctor or immunisation provider if you think you or someone in your care has health, age, lifestyle or occupation factors that could mean immunisation is necessary. You can check your immunisation HALO using the downloadable poster (pdf).
Where to get help
Content Partner
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
Department of Health and Human Services - RHP&R - Health Protection - Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Unit
Last updated:
June 2018
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