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

Hiberix is indicated for the prevention of infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b in pediatric populations.

• Primary prevention of Hib meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis in infants.
• Use in routine childhood immunization programs according to national schedules.
• Administration as part of a three‑dose primary series, typically at 2, 4, and 6 months of age.
• Option to give a booster dose after the primary series, often at 12–15 months.
• May be co‑administered with other pediatric vaccines such as DTaP, IPV, and PCV13.

• Hiberix works by linking the polyribosylribitol phosphate (PRP) capsular polysaccharide of Haemophilus influenzae type b to a tetanus toxoid carrier protein. The conjugate enables the polysaccharide to be processed by antigen‑presenting cells, eliciting a T‑cell‑dependent immune response. This stimulates the production of high‑affinity anti‑PRP antibodies and memory B cells, providing active, long‑lasting protection against Hib infection. The tetanus toxoid component also contributes to the overall immunogenicity without causing tetanus disease.

Local and systemic reactions may occur after Hiberix injection; most are mild and resolve without intervention.

Common

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

Serious

• High fever (≥39 °C) persisting more than 48 hours.
• Severe allergic reaction (e.g., urticaria, angioedema, bronchospasm).
• Seizures associated with fever.
• Persistent crying or inconsolable distress lasting >3 hours.

Healthcare providers should assess each patient before administering Hiberix to ensure safe use and to identify conditions that may require special attention.

• Do not vaccinate children with a known severe allergy to any component of the vaccine, including tetanus toxoid.
• Defer vaccination in individuals with a moderate or severe acute illness until recovery.
• Observe the patient for at least 15 minutes after injection for immediate hypersensitivity reactions.
• Use with caution in infants with a history of seizures or febrile convulsions.
• Document previous Hib vaccination to avoid unnecessary repeat dosing.
• Consider postponing the dose if the child is receiving immunosuppressive therapy.

Hiberix does not have many documented drug‑drug interactions, but certain clinical situations warrant attention.

Avoid

• Concurrent administration of live bacterial vaccines (e.g., oral typhoid) in the same limb, which may interfere with immune response.
• Use in patients receiving high‑dose corticosteroids or other potent immunosuppressants without adjusting the schedule.

Use with caution

• Simultaneous receipt of multiple injectable vaccines; monitor for increased local reactogenicity.
• Infants on antipyretic therapy may have attenuated fever response, potentially masking early signs of infection.
• Patients with a history of Guillain‑Barré syndrome should be evaluated before vaccination.