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Hib meningitis booster in the Republic of Ireland
31 May 2006
Hib meningitis is caused by the bacteria Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) which also causes a range of other serious illnesses.
Until the introduction of the Hib conjugate vaccine in 1992, this was the main form of meningitis in young children in Ireland. It mainly affects children under four.
Following the introduction of the vaccine, cases of the disease dropped dramatically, making Hib immunisation very successful. And in 2005 the Government introduced a Hib booster catch up campaign to ensure fuller protection from the devastating effects of Hib disease.
If your child was born between 2 November 2001 and 1 November 2004 they should have received their Hib booster. If they have not, make sure you contact your GP to make an appointment.
Meningitis Research Foundation deals with cases of meningitis and septicaemia every day. Hib is a serious, life-threatening disease - make sure your child is protected.