Hiberix (Haemophilus Type B Conjugate Vaccine (Tetanus Toxoid Conjugate))

Hiberix is indicated for the prevention of invasive disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b in infants and children.

• Primary series of three doses given at 2, 4, and 12‑15 months of age.
• A single booster dose administered at 12‑15 months or later, according to local schedule.
• Recommended for children from 6 weeks up to 5 years of age who have not previously received Hib vaccine.
• Administered by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection into the anterolateral thigh or deltoid muscle.
• Can be co‑administered with other routine pediatric vaccines such as DTaP, IPV, or pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

• Hiberix contains the capsular polysaccharide of Haemophilus influenzae type b covalently linked to tetanus toxoid protein. The conjugate converts the polysaccharide into a T‑cell‑dependent antigen, enabling B‑cell activation and class‑switching. This stimulates production of high‑affinity anti‑PRP (polyribosyl‑ribitol‑phosphate) antibodies and immunologic memory, providing active protection against invasive Hib disease. The immune response also involves helper T‑cell activation and cytokine release, which further enhances antibody maturation and long‑term protection.

Like all vaccines, Hiberix may cause local or systemic reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Low‑grade fever (≤38.5 °C) within 24‑48 hours after vaccination.
• Irritability or fussiness in infants.
• Mild fatigue or decreased appetite.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) with hives, airway swelling, or hypotension.
• High fever (>40 °C) persisting more than 24 hours.
• Seizure (febrile convulsion) associated with fever.
• Persistent crying or inconsolable behavior lasting >3 hours.

Healthcare providers should assess individual risk factors before administering Hiberix and follow recommended safety guidelines.

• Do not vaccinate children with a known severe allergy to any vaccine component, including tetanus toxoid.
• Postpone vaccination in persons experiencing moderate or severe acute illness with fever.
• Observe the patient for at least 15 minutes after injection to monitor for immediate allergic reactions.
• Use caution in individuals with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders; discuss benefits versus risks.
• Consider deferring vaccination in immunocompromised patients until clinical stability is achieved.
• Ensure proper storage and handling of the vaccine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Hiberix generally has a low potential for drug interactions, but certain circumstances warrant caution.

Avoid

• Concurrent administration of live bacterial vaccines (e.g., oral typhoid) within 4 weeks, as immune response may be altered.
• Simultaneous use of immunosuppressive therapies (e.g., high‑dose corticosteroids) that could diminish vaccine efficacy.

Use with caution

• Administration with other inactivated vaccines; monitor for increased local reactogenicity.
• Patients receiving antipyretics (e.g., acetaminophen) prophylactically; may reduce antibody response.
• Individuals on biologic agents targeting B‑cell function; assess timing relative to vaccination.