Hib Vaccination

Key points

• CDC recommends Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination for all children younger than 5 years old in the United States.
• Hib vaccines are the best protection against serious Hib infections.
• Side effects are uncommon for Hib vaccination.
• Talk to a vaccine provider if you have questions about Hib vaccines.

Why getting vaccinated is important

Haemophilus influenzae bacteria, including Hib, can cause serious illness and death in babies and children younger than 5 years old. Hib vaccines help protect against Hib disease.

Keep ReadingAbout Haemophilus influenzae Disease

Vaccine recommendations

CDC recommends Hib vaccination for all children younger than 5 years old. Older children and adults usually don't need a Hib vaccine, unless they have certain medical conditions.

Young children

Children younger than 5 years old need multiple Hib shots. CDC recommends them at the following ages:

• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months (if needed; depends on brand)
• 12 through 15 months

Older children and adults

Older children and adults usually don't need a Hib vaccine. CDC recommends Hib vaccination for two groups of older children and adults:

• People with certain medical conditions who are unvaccinated
• People who receive a bone marrow transplant

Allergies, reactions: Talk with a vaccine provider

Talk to a vaccine provider about your vaccination history and a specific vaccine's ingredients. There may be times when someone shouldn't get a Hib vaccine, like if they:

• Are younger than 6 weeks old
• Had a life-threatening allergic reaction after getting a Hib vaccine
• Have a severe allergy to any part of a Hib vaccine

Feeling sick?

Generally, vaccination is fine during mild illnesses like a cold. A vaccine provider can advise on whether to get vaccinated or wait until you feel better.

How well they work

Vaccines that help protect against Hib disease work well but cannot prevent all cases.

Keep ReadingHow Well Hib Vaccines Work

Possible side effects

Most people who get a Hib vaccine don't have any problems with it. Like with medicines, there is a chance of side effects with vaccines. These are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days, but serious reactions are possible.

Mild problems

Mild problems following Hib vaccination are uncommon. If they occur, they usually begin soon after receiving the vaccine. They can last up to 2 or 3 days, and include:

• Reactions where the vaccine provider gave the shotRedness
• Warmth
• Swelling
• Fever

Keep ReadingSafety Information for Hib Vaccines

Children

Hib vaccination is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule. Therefore, at least one Hib vaccine is regularly available for children at:

• Pediatric and family practice offices
• Community health clinics
• Public health departments

Adults

For adults, a healthcare provider's office or pharmacy are usually the best places to receive recommended vaccines. If your healthcare provider doesn't have Hib vaccines, ask for a referral.

Federally funded health centers can also provide services if you don't have a regular source of health care. Locate one near you.

You can also contact your health department to learn more about where to get vaccines in your community.

Vaccine costs

There are several ways to cover the cost of a Hib vaccine:

Private health insurance

Most private health insurance plans cover this vaccine. Check with your insurance provider for cost information and for a list of in-network vaccine providers.

Vaccines for Children program

The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccines to children whose parents or guardians may not be able to afford them.

Vaccine schedules

Parent-friendly schedule for children (birth through 6 years)

Easy-to-read schedule for adults (19 years and older)

Hib Vaccine Information Statement

English | Other languages

Other resources

Cochlear implants and vaccination recommendations

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