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Decline in Haemophilus influenzae type b meningitis--Seattle-King County, Washington, 1984-1989
Abstract:
The first vaccines licensed in the United States for prevention of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease were composed of the capsular polysaccharide of Hib, polyribosylribitol phosphate (PRP). The vaccines, licensed in 1985, were moderately effective in preventing Hib disease in children aged 24-59 months. In December 1987, the first Hib conjugate vaccine was licensed. The vaccine was recommended for use in children aged 18-59 months to prevent meningitis and other forms of invasive disease caused by Hib. This report summarizes surveillance for Hib meningitis and provides data on the use of Hib vaccine in Seattle-King County, Washington, where Hib meningitis surveillance methods have remained the same since 1984.
Insights
The first Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines were moderately effective. Newer Hib conjugate vaccines, recommended since 1987, offer improved prevention against Hib meningitis and invasive diseases in young children.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) causes serious invasive diseases, particularly meningitis, in young children.
- Early Hib vaccines utilized polyribosylribitol phosphate (PRP), licensed in 1985.
- These initial PRP vaccines demonstrated moderate efficacy in children aged 24-59 months.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize surveillance data for Hib meningitis.
- To present data on the adoption and use of Hib vaccines in Seattle-King County, Washington.
- To assess the impact of Hib vaccine introduction on disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance for Hib meningitis cases in Seattle-King County.
- Analysis of Hib vaccine usage trends.
- Consistent surveillance methodology maintained since 1984 for comparability.
Main Results:
- The introduction of Hib conjugate vaccines in December 1987 marked a significant advancement.
- These conjugate vaccines were recommended for children aged 18-59 months.
- Surveillance data from Seattle-King County provides insights into vaccine effectiveness and disease trends.
Conclusions:
- Hib conjugate vaccines represent a crucial development in preventing invasive Hib disease.
- Continued surveillance is essential for monitoring vaccine impact and disease burden.
- The shift from polysaccharide to conjugate vaccines has enhanced protection against Hib meningitis.