Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Polysaccharide Vaccine

Introduction: Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Polysaccharide Vaccine is used for prevention of invasive disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b. It is approved for use in children 2 months through 5 years of age.

How it works: Antigenic capsular polysaccharides induce antibody production which provides immunity against H. influenzae type b bacteria.

Important Information: 4-dose series (0.5 mL each) given by intramuscular injection: Primary series at 2, 4, and 6 months of age and Booster at 15 through 18 months of age.

• Prevention of Haemophilus influenzae type b infection - meningitis, septicemia, cellulitis, arthritis

Vaccine

Polysaccharide Vaccine

This vaccine contains the antigenic capsular polysaccharide of H. influenzae type b which induces antibody production. It is approved for use in children 2 months through 5 years of age and is given as a 4-dose series by intramuscular injection.

The vaccine induces antibody production through antigenic capsular polysaccharides which provides immunity against H. influenzae type b bacteria.

Child Dose (2 months-5 years):

• Primary series: 0.5 mL each at 2, 4, and 6 months (first dose may be given at 6 weeks)
• Booster: 0.5 mL at 15-18 months

6-12 months (previously unvaccinated):

• 2 injections 1 month apart, then booster in second year

1-5 years (previously unvaccinated):

• 1 dose

Intramuscular (IM) injection - into the anterolateral aspect of the thigh or deltoid. Administered by healthcare professional.

If you miss a dose, take the next dose according to the schedule. Consult your doctor.

Common Side Effects:

• Irritability - 72.6%
• Drowsiness - 57.5%
• Tenderness - 46.3%
• Induration - 22.5%
• Fever - 20.1%
• Anorexia - 15.3%
• Diarrhea - 4.4%
• Injection site erythema/induration/pain/swelling

Precautions:

• Minor illnesses such as upper respiratory infection with or without low-grade fever are not contraindications
• H. influenzae type b disease may occur subsequent to vaccination and prior to onset of protective effects - medical supervision needed
• Immunosuppressive therapy may reduce immune response to vaccine

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity

Drug Interactions:

• Immunosuppressive therapies (irradiation, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, cytotoxic drugs, corticosteroids) may reduce immune response to vaccine

Food Interactions: No interaction found/established.

Use in Pregnancy: Not applicable (for children).

Use in Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown.

Pediatric Use: Approved for children 2 months through 5 years of age.

Geriatric Use: Not applicable (for children).

Renal & Hepatic Impairment: No known restrictions.

Overdose: Overdose is unlikely (given in prescribed doses).

Storage: Store at 2°C-8°C (refrigerator). Do not freeze.

Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Polysaccharide Vaccine