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The decline of Haemophilus influenzae type b disease in Australia
1National Centre for Disease Control, Department of Health and Family Services, Canberra.
Abstract:
Between July 1993 and June 1996, there were 412 cases of invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease reported to the Hib Case Surveillance Scheme, 71% in children under the age of five years. Meningitis was the most frequent illness reported, followed by epiglottitis, septicaemia and pneumonia. There were 18 deaths. Thirty-four cases were classified as vaccine failures. The number of vaccine failures increased over time and the total number of cases of Hib disease fell, consistent with an increase in Hib vaccine coverage. Based on an estimated vaccine coverage of 50% in April 1995, the vaccine efficacy for all vaccines in the period was estimated to be 89%. Invasive Hib is a serious illness of childhood which is being significantly reduced by the use of Hib vaccines, and has the potential to be eliminated from this country. Vaccination providers should aim to immunise all children against Hib disease on time and according to the National Health and Medical Research Council Standard Vaccination Schedule.
Insights
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) invasive disease significantly decreased due to widespread vaccination, with 89% vaccine efficacy observed. Continued timely immunisation is crucial for potential elimination of Hib disease in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) disease poses a significant threat to young children.
- Hib infections commonly manifest as meningitis, epiglottitis, septicaemia, and pneumonia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination on invasive disease incidence.
- To estimate the vaccine efficacy and identify trends in vaccine failures.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance of 412 invasive Hib cases reported between July 1993 and June 1996.
- Analysis of disease incidence, types of illness, mortality, and vaccine failures.
- Estimation of vaccine efficacy based on reported coverage rates.
Main Results:
- 71% of invasive Hib cases occurred in children under five years old.
- Vaccine failures increased as overall Hib disease cases declined, indicating rising vaccine coverage.
- Estimated vaccine efficacy was 89% with 50% vaccine coverage in April 1995.
- 18 deaths were reported, with 34 cases classified as vaccine failures.
Conclusions:
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination is highly effective in reducing invasive childhood illness.
- There is potential for the elimination of invasive Hib disease through sustained vaccination efforts.
- Adherence to the National Health and Medical Research Council Standard Vaccination Schedule is recommended for all children.