Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Haemophilus Influenzae B Conjugate Vaccine - Hib Vaccine
Overview & Description
This vaccine is given to prevent infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b, called Hib, bacteria. These bacteria grow in the upper airway of children and adults. Most of the time, they do not cause any problems. However, they can cause serious illnesses, such as:
Before a Hib vaccine was made, there were about 20,000 Hib infections each year in the US, which caused up to 1,000 deaths. Hib was the most common cause of bacterial meningitis among children younger than age 5. The number of reported cases has dropped greatly since 1990. In 1995, there were only 259 cases reported.
Who is a candidate for the procedure?
Hib is one of the recommended childhood vaccines. Depending on the actual vaccine preparation used, a series of shots are usually given at ages:
The vaccine is not routinely recommended for children over age 5. There is very little Hib disease in children older than 2. If a child has never had this vaccine by the age of 15 months, only one shot is given at that time.
How is the procedure performed?
A shot of the vaccine is given in the muscle of the thigh or arm. The area is cleaned with an antibacterial swab before the shot.