Hibtiter and Immunocompromised

• Generic Name: haemophilus b conjugate (prp-t) vaccine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: ActHIB, Hiberix

Haemophilus b conjugate vaccine is an active immunizing agent that is used to prevent infection caused by the Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) bacteria. The vaccine works by causing your body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the disease.

Haemophilus b conjugate vaccine is prepared by adding a diphtheria, meningococcal, or tetanus-related substance to the process. However, this vaccine does not take the place of the regular vaccines for diphtheria, tetanus, or meningococcus that children and adults should receive. All of the haemophilus b conjugate vaccines work the same way, but they may be given at different ages or using a different schedule.

Infections with Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) bacteria can cause life-threatening illnesses, such as meningitis (a brain disease), epiglottitis (a throat disease that can cause suffocation), pericarditis (a heart disease), pneumonia (a lung disease), and septic arthritis (a bone and joint disease). Hib meningitis may cause death or leave the child with serious and permanent damage, such as mental retardation, deafness, epilepsy, or partial blindness.

Haemophilus b conjugate vaccine is recommended for all children 2 months to 5 years of age (i.e., up to the 6th birthday).

The Hiberix® vaccine is used as a booster dose for children who have already received the primary series with a haemophilus b conjugate vaccine. The vaccine will "boost" or increase the protection that the child had from an earlier dose.

This vaccine is to be administered only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.