Introduction
The Hib vaccine is relatively new, especially compared to the ancient smallpox vaccine. It was first available in 1990, and now three manufacturers produce this vaccine. Depending on the formulation, this vaccine is given either in three or four doses. All formulations of this vaccine work equally well, and they also share the same side effects.
Sometimes the Hib vaccine is combined with other vaccines and given as a single injection instead of two separate injections. The two vaccines that are sometimes combined with the Hib vaccine are the hepatitis B vaccine and the DTaP vaccine. When the vaccines are combined, the potential side effects from the other vaccine can manifest as well.
Alert
Due to the high demand for this vaccine, there have been frequent nationwide shortages in recent years. Your pediatrician may not be able to provide all doses of this vaccine for your child. Talk to your doctor to find out whether your baby missed this vaccine due to the shortage.
The Hib vaccine works extremely well, yet it is still possible to become ill with the Hib infection after receiving the vaccine. It may take more than two weeks after immunization for the body to generate enough immune response to protect your baby against the Hib infection. During this vulnerable period of time, your child is susceptible to the devastating effect of the Hib infection. In addition, this vaccine needs several boosters to work optimally; there is only moderate protection after a single first dose. Subsequent injections boost the immune system further and offer much better protection.
Essential
An earlier version of the Hib vaccine, called the polysaccharide vaccine, first became available in 1985, but it was discontinued because it did not work very well, especially in babies less than a year old. The current version of the Hib vaccine is completely redesigned, and it has proven to work extremely well, even in babies.
Keep in mind that the Hib bacterium is not the only germ that causes meningitis in children. Many other bacteria, including the pneumococcus bacterium and the meningococcus bacterium, are also common causes of meningitis. Fortunately, there are vaccines for both of these bacteria.
