Haemophilus influenzae B (HiB): treatment and vaccination
The germ Haemophilus influenzae type B (HiB) is found in most people in the nasopharynx. If the immune system is insufficient, especially in very young children, it can lead to feverish infections and serious inflammation. Find out here how to recognize HiB and how it can be treated.
What is Haemophilus influenzae type B (HiB)?
The germs of the Haemophilus influenzae group are a natural part of the throat and nose flora of almost all people. They often colonize these areas unnoticed. However, if the human immune system weakens, it can spread, especially to the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, which can cause severe inflammation. The type B (HiB) germ is particularly relevant because, unlike many other types, it is surrounded by a special capsule. This capsule makes it difficult for the immune system to “recognize” him and develop appropriate antibodies. You can find tips on how to strengthen your immune system in our article .
Babies are particularly affected by an illness, since their immune system is not yet fully developed and therefore cannot adequately respond to an attack. 90 percent of the cases of the disease therefore occur in children who are younger than five years, 60 percent of them in the first year of life.
How does an infection with HiB manifest itself?
When a child gets HiB infection, inflammation can develop in all parts of the body. Inflammation of the middle ear or the paranasal sinuses, bronchitis or pneumonia often occur . But also purulent inflammation of the joints or the spinal cord are possible consequences of a disease. However, the two most serious symptoms are meningitis, also known as meningitis , and inflammation of the epiglottis, known as epiglottitis.
Meningitis is manifested by high fever, vomiting, headaches and, above all, a stiff neck. If the course is severe, permanent consequences such as hearing or visual damage and mental disorders can remain even after successful treatment.
An inflammation of the epiglottis is also indicated by high fever, accompanied by severe sore throat and extraordinary swallowing disorders. Affected children therefore often let their saliva run out of their mouths. If an epiglottis is not treated in time, it can eventually lead to suffocation.
How can a HiB infection be treated?
If an infection with the HiB germ is detected at an early stage, it can in many cases be cured without consequences by the intravenous administration of antibiotics. Taking an antibiotic for several days may also be recommended for family members or other close contacts.
However, due to the uncritical prescription of antibiotics, even for less serious infections, resistance is developing more and more, which means that the germs no longer respond to this treatment. Vaccination against HiB is therefore advisable, especially for small children.