[Haemophilus influenzae type b--active prevention]

Infection with non-encapsulated types of Haemophilus influenzae bacteria can cause such diseases as sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis or otitis. Of the six capsulated types of Haemophilus influenzae, type b (Hib) is the main cause of invasive diseases in childhood, including meningitis, septicaemia, epiglottitis, pneumonia, arthritis, osteomyelitis. The article presents the data about the virulence of Haemophilus influenzae, its carrier state, invasive Hib infections in the world and in Poland as well as active prevention with usage of Hib vaccinations, with special reference to high risk groups.