What is the treatment for H. influenzae infection?
Specific antibiotics are generally used to treat serious infections. Should people who have been in contact with someone diagnosed with H. influenzae infection be treated? Preventive treatment is only recommended in specific situations. For example, treatment with an antibiotic is recommended for household members when there is at least one unvaccinated child under four years of age in the home. In certain situations, preventive treatment will be recommended in childcare centers. Casual contact such as occurs in classrooms or office settings is not usually significant enough for preventive treatment to be needed. What can be done to prevent the spread of H. influenzae? Hib vaccines are available. All children should be vaccinated against Hib beginning at approximately two months of age. Contact your physician or local health department for further information about vaccination.
