Hib vaccine

Definition

The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b, a bacterium that can cause severe infections, including meningitis. It is crucial in preventing bacterial diseases that affect the nervous system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hib vaccine is effective in reducing the incidence of bacterial meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b.
2. Administered typically in infancy, it requires multiple doses for full immunization.
3. Before the vaccine's introduction, Hib was a leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children under five.
4. The vaccine contains purified polyribosylribitol phosphate (PRP) conjugated to a protein carrier to enhance immune response.
5. Herd immunity from widespread vaccination helps protect unvaccinated individuals and those with compromised immune systems.

Review Questions

Related terms

Meningitis:

Inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by an infection.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): A bacterium that can cause severe invasive diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis.

Polysaccharide-Protein Conjugate Vaccine: A type of vaccine that joins a polysaccharide antigen to a protein carrier to enhance immunogenicity.