The Arc of Western Wayne County: Serving people with disabilities

The Take Charge Helpline

What is HIB Disease?

HIB Disease is the common name for a strain of influenza.  Its real name is Haemophilus influenza, Type B, and it is caused by organisms commonly found in the nose and throat of 30% of all healthy people.  Although HIB Disease is carried by people without symptoms, it can be dangerous to children and older people who may not be healthy.

Symptoms of this type of influenza may include fever, cough with or without mucus, stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches, shortness of breath, chills, sweats, nausea and vomiting and appetite loss.  People with HIB Disease should call their health care provider if symptoms do not improve in 7-10 days, if their coughing produces brown or green mucus, or if breathing becomes difficult.  Complications can be a secondary bacterial infection, bronchitis or pneumonia.

Treatment is bed rest, analgesics for muscle aches and taking plenty of fluids.  Symptoms usually go away after a week.  Flu shots specifically for HIB disease are not recommended for people who are 65 or older or for anyone with chronic heart or lung conditions.  Flu shots however, are recommended for other types of flu.

For more information please contact The National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners at 856-857-9700, or visit them online at www.hibdisease.com.

Phone code: 1720