Haemophilus influenzae type b

Haemophilus influenzae type b is a bacteria that causes meningitis (an infection of the covering of the brain) and other severe infections in young children. In addition to meningitis, Haemophilus influenzae type b can cause pneumonia, epiglotitis (an inflammation and swelling of the opening of the windpipe), and infections in the blood, joints, bones, soft body tissues and outer covering of the heart.

Before the use of Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine, the NWT had the highest rate of Haemophilus influenzae type b disease in Canada. 

 

Last Updated: November 08, 2006

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