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Haemophilus influenzae type b disease in Auckland children 1981-87
Insights
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) invasive disease significantly impacts children under five in Auckland. Introducing a new conjugated Hib vaccine could prevent severe childhood illnesses and reduce disease incidence.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) causes severe invasive diseases in young children.
- Understanding Hib epidemiology is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and characteristics of invasive Hib disease in Auckland's pediatric population.
- To inform potential vaccination strategies in New Zealand.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 205 confirmed Hib invasive disease episodes in children under 15.
- Analysis of patient demographics, disease types, and outcomes over a seven-year period.
Main Results:
- Overall incidence of invasive Hib disease was 14/100,000/year in children under 15, and 41/100,000/year in those under 5.
- Meningitis was the most common manifestation (63%), primarily affecting children under 2 years.
- Beta-lactamase production was observed in 9% of meningeal isolates; only one fatality occurred.
Conclusions:
- Hib invasive disease remains a significant concern in Auckland's pediatric population, particularly in those under five.
- The introduction of a conjugated Haemophilus influenzae vaccine, recently licensed in the US, should be considered for New Zealand to reduce disease burden.
Abstract:
Haemophilus influenzae type b invasive disease was reviewed in the Auckland paediatric population. A total of 205 episodes were confirmed by sterile cavity culture in 203 patients under 15 years of age over a seven year period. The incidence of invasive disease was 14/100,000/year in those under 15 years and 41/100,000/year in under 5 year olds. The age range was from 1 month to 11 years, with 91% under 5 years and 64% under 2 years. Most cases were due to meningitis (63%). Other diseases included epiglottitis, pneumonia, cellulitis, arthritis, and occult bacteraemia. There was only one fatality. Beta lactamase production was found in 9% of meningeal isolates. Recently a new conjugated haemophilus vaccine has been licensed in the United States for use in children 18 months and older. Consideration should be given to introducing this vaccine in New Zealand.