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Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine

Learn about the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine, effectiveness, side effects, and safety.

Disease it protects from

Who should get this vaccine

Children under age 5 years who have been immunized for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio and only need the Hib vaccine can get this vaccine.

Older children and adults may also get this vaccine if they have a high risk of severe Hib disease because of health problems. These may include those with no spleen, a weak immune system, or those who have a cochlear implant.

Who should not get this vaccine

You may not be able to get this vaccine if:

  • You have an allergy to any part of the vaccine.
  • You had a severe (serious) or unusual side effect after this vaccine or one like it.

If you have allergies or have had a side effect from this vaccine in the past, check with your doctor or a public health nurse before you get the vaccine.

Although you can get the vaccine if you have a mild illness, such as a cold or fever, you should stay home until you are feeling better to prevent spreading your illness to others.

Doses

The number of doses you need depends on your age and why you’re having the vaccine.

You usually get 3 doses (the primary series) of the Hib vaccine as a baby in a combined vaccine that protects against other diseases. This is followed by an extra (booster) dose at age 18 months.

If you have certain health problems, you may need more doses after age 5 years.

Other vaccines that protect against the same diseases

DTaP-IPV-Hib-HB protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and hepatitis B. As part of the routine immunization schedule, babies get this vaccine starting at age 2 months.

DTaP-IPV-Hib protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). As part of the routine immunization schedule, this vaccine is given to children born before March 1, 2018, who are under age 7 years, as part of their primary series and to all children at age 18 months as a booster dose.

Get the vaccine

You can get the vaccine at your local public health or community health centre.

Current as of: June 30, 2023
Author: Provincial Immunization Program, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.