Meningitis-Haemophilus Influenza (HIB Disease-Vaccine Preventable)

CAUSE:

Meningitis due to the Haemophilus influenza bacteria, and is vaccine preventable.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

HIB is most common in children six months through five years of age. Symptoms are lethargy, fever, stiff neck, headache, irritability, tiredness, vomiting and loss of appetite.

INCUBATION PERIOD:

Two to four days

MODE OF TRANSMISSION:

Person-to-person contact, by airborne droplet spray, and nose and throat discharges during communicable period.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES:

Vaccine available. Any child attending pre-school or nursery care should have this vaccine.

PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY:

As long as organisms are present. Non-communicable within 24-48 hours after starting effective antibiotic therapy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL:

Exclude from school. Healthcare provider’s note required to return to school. Report to Coordinated Student Health Services immediately at 754-321-1575. Coordinated Student Health Services will report immediately to Department of Health-Broward.