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Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccines
P J Kniskern1, S Marburg, R W Ellis
1Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA.
Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) conjugate vaccines are highly effective in children and infants. Widespread use has led to a 95% decrease in Hib disease incidence since 1993.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a significant cause of invasive disease in young children.
- Hib conjugate vaccines have been developed to prevent Hib infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the immunogenicity and efficacy of Hib conjugate vaccines.
- To assess the impact of Hib conjugate vaccines on disease incidence.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Hib conjugate vaccines.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on Hib disease incidence before and after vaccine introduction.
Main Results:
- Hib conjugate vaccines (HbOC, PRP-OMPC, PRP-T) are highly immunogenic and efficacious in infants from 2 months of age.
- A 95% decline in Hib disease incidence in children under 5 was observed between 1987 and 1993, coinciding with vaccine use.
- Hib vaccines are recommended for infant immunization globally.
Conclusions:
- Hib conjugate vaccines have dramatically reduced the incidence of Hib disease.
- Continued vaccination may lead to the eradication or significant control of Hib disease, similar to other vaccine-preventable diseases.