World-wide strategies for immunization against invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b disease.

Data available on the immunogenicity, safety and efficacy of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) conjugate vaccines are encouraging and the prospects for controlling invasive Hib disease are good. The incidence of Hib meningitis in many industrialized countries increases sharply between 6 and 12 months of age and the first two doses of a Hib vaccine should ideally be given before that. In non-industrialized countries, the incidence peak is seen very early in life, which would require a very early start for Hib vaccination in such areas.