Is Hib the same as influenza or flu?

No, despite the name. Haemophilus influenzae is a bacterium that was mistakenly linked to flu when it was discovered. Influenza is a virus, and a separate vaccine protects against it.

My child’s schedule does not list Hib separately. Is it missing?

Probably not. If the schedule includes a Pentavalent or Hexavalent vaccine, Hib is inside it. Only schedules that use standalone products list it as its own row.

Hib Vaccine: Schedule & Side Effects

Protects against: Hib disease
How given: Injection, in the thigh in infants and the upper arm in older children.
Doses: Two or three doses in the first six months, followed by a booster in the second year.
Reactions: Usually mild

About this vaccine

The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b, a bacterium that was once a leading cause of meningitis and of a dangerous throat swelling called epiglottitis in children under five. Routine Hib vaccination has made both rare. It is given as a standalone injection in schedules such as the US and Philippines, and is one of the components inside the Pentavalent and Hexavalent combination vaccines used elsewhere.

What it protects against

Hib diseaseA bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and pneumonia in young children.

When it's given

United StatesCDC · 2026

1-2 monthsDose 1
4 monthsDose 2
6 monthsDose 3
12-23 monthsBooster

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United StatesAAP · 2026

2 monthsDose 1
4 monthsDose 2
6 monthsDose 3
12-15 monthsDose 4

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AustraliaATAGI · 2026

15-18 monthsBooster

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PhilippinesPIDSP · 2026

12-15 monthsBooster

View full schedule

Ages follow the schedules listed above. Your pediatrician may adjust timing for your child.

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How it's given

Injection, in the thigh in infants and the upper arm in older children.

Side effects & safety

Redness or tenderness where the injection was given, and sometimes a mild fever, settling within a day or two.

How babies usually reactUsually mild

Most babies have little or no reaction. Any soreness or fever tends to be brief.

When to call your doctor: if fever exceeds 40°C, lasts more than 2 days, or your child seems unusually unwell.

Alternatives & related vaccines

PentavalentA single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.Vaccine guide HexavalentA single shot protecting against six infections, including polio and hepatitis B.Vaccine guide

Common questions

Sources

Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2013.

Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.

Other vaccines

BCG OPV IPV DTaP All vaccines

From the blog

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This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.

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