Invasive Haemophilus influenzae disease
![Haemophilus influenzae bacteria. © Science Photo Library](https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/sites/default/files/styles/is_large/public/images/Haemophilus-influenzae-disease_H.jpg?itok=RcETse5Z)
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is an obligate human pathogen and an important cause of invasive bacterial infections in both children and adults, with the highest incidence among young children. Most invasive Hib infections can be prevented with immunisation and, where it has been used, vaccination against Hib has dramatically reduced the rate of invasive Hib disease in young children.