About Haemophilus influenzae Disease

Haemophilus influenzae (including Hib) is a bacterium that can cause a severe infection, occurring mostly in infants and children younger than five years of age. In spite of its name, Haemophilus influenzae does not cause influenza (the "flu"). It can cause lifelong disability and be deadly.

There are six identifiable types of Haemophilus influenzae bacteria (a through f) and other non-identifiable types (called nontypeable). The one that most people are familiar with is Haemophilus influenzae type b, or Hib. There’s a vaccine that can prevent disease caused by Hib, but not the other types of Haemophilus influenzae.

Types of Haemophilus influenzae Infection

Infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae bacteria...

Symptoms

Lists typical symptoms of certain infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae bacteria…

Risk Factors

Explains who is most at risk for a Haemophilus influenzae infection...

Complications

Types of severe problems that can occur with a Haemophilus influenzae infection...

Causes and Transmission

Explains more about Haemophilus influenzae bacteria and how they can spread from person-to-person...

Diagnosis and Treatment

Explains how various types of Haemophilus influenzae disease are diagnosed and treated...

Prevention

Lists ways to prevent Haemophilus influenzae infection...

Photos

Photos of Haemophilus influenzae bacteria and infections, including Hib...