What is the haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine?
Hib vaccine protects against infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b.
Vaccines can provide protection against a single disease, or can be made to provide protection against more than one disease. Vaccines that provide protection against more than one disease are called combined vaccines. The Hib vaccine is available in both combined and single vaccine formats.
The vaccine you receive depends on your age, your vaccine requirements and the specific vaccine products that are currently available.
Vaccines commonly used:
Who should get the Hib vaccine?
In general, everyone should get this vaccine. It is given starting in infancy and at scheduled times throughout childhood. It is important to receive the vaccine at the right time. To find out more about when infants and children should get the vaccine, see the Ontario Immunization Schedule (Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care).
Who should not get the Hib vaccine?
- People who have had a serious allergic reaction to any ingredient in the vaccine or to a previous dose of the vaccine itself should not receive the Hib vaccine.
Your health care provider will ask you questions about your health before giving you any vaccine. This will help them identify allergies you might have and to safely manage potential allergic reactions.
What are the possible side effects of the Hib vaccine?
You could have mild side effects after being vaccinated, but they usually go away in one to two days. Some people can be allergic to the vaccine, just like they might have a food or medication allergy.
Learn more about common vaccine side effects and what to do about them.
Is the Hib vaccine required to attend school, daycare or to work in certain settings?
Yes. It is required that children be immunized against this disease to attend a licensed daycare in Ontario (Immunization of School Pupils Act, Child Care and Early Years Act).
To find out which vaccines are required for children to attend school or daycare in Ontario, see the School Immunization Checklist (Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care).
Reporting vaccinations
Children attending daycare
- Parents and guardians must also report the vaccinations to Public Health to keep their records up-to-date.
- Exemptions: signed statements must be submitted for vaccination exemptions based on medical reasons or reasons of conscience or religious belief.
General Public
- Access and update your immunization records.
What else should you know about the Hib vaccine?
Cost
This vaccine is publicly funded, meaning it is free of charge for those who need it. No matter where you get the vaccine in Ontario, there is no cost (in a hospital, walk-in clinic, health care provider’s office or public health unit).
For a list of publicly funded vaccines in Ontario, see the Ontario Immunization Schedule.
Risks and benefits
Talk to your health care provider of getting vaccinated if you have special health conditions or concerns. Learn more about special considerations before being vaccinated.
Where can you get the Hib vaccine?
- Public Health offers this vaccine at one of our immunization clinics
- You may also be able to get vaccinated at your doctor’s office, a walk-in clinic or community health centre. Appointments may be required.
For more information:
- Contact us.
- See our frequently asked questions or send us your question.
- See our list of helpful websites for information about vaccination.