10/02/26 Public Health Education Topic: Haemophilus influenzae (H. Flu)
Per CDC
Key points
Bacteria called Haemophilus influenzae can cause many types of infections.
Some of these infections are mild, while others are serious.
Despite its name, H. influenzae doesn't cause the flu.
Learn about how vaccines can prevent infections from one type of H. influenzae, type b or Hib.
Types
H. influenzae can cause many different types of infections. These infections range from mild, like ear infections, to serious, like bloodstream infections.
Serious infections
The most common serious infections caused by H. influenzae are:
Pneumonia (a lung infection)
Bloodstream infection
Meningitis (swelling of the lining of the brain and spinal cord)
Epiglottitis (swelling of the throat)
Cellulitis (skin infection)
Infectious arthritis (swelling of a joint)
Mild infections
H. influenzae are a common cause of ear infections in children and bronchitis (chest cold) in adults.
Symptoms
H. influenzae can cause many different types of infections. Symptoms depend on the part of the body that's infected. Serious infections can result in long-term health problems and death.
Prevention
People can get H. influenzae, including Hib, disease more than once. Maintaining healthy habits helps prevent H. influenzae disease. Examples of healthy habits include washing hands often and not having close contact with people who are sick.
To learn more please visit: About Haemophilus influenzae Disease | H. influenzae | CDC
