Act-HIB (Haemophilus Type B Polysaccharide Conjugated To Tetanus Protein)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Act-HIB Used For?
Act-HIB is a conjugate vaccine designed to protect children against serious infections caused by Haemophilus Influenzae type b bacteria.
Primary Uses
Act-HIB protects children from Haemophilus Influenzae type b infections. It can be given to children from 2 months to 5 years of age. This vaccine does not protect against other types of Haemophilus Influenzae infections or meningitis from other causes.
How It Works
When Act-HIB is given, your child’s immune system (the body’s natural defense system) learns to recognize and fight against Haemophilus Influenzae type b bacteria. However, like all vaccines, Act-HIB may not protect 100% of children who receive it.
Important: The tetanus protein in this vaccine cannot replace your child’s regular tetanus vaccination schedule.
How Act-HIB Is Given
Act-HIB is given as an injection by your doctor or nurse. The location depends on your child’s age.
Administration Details
For children under 24 months, the vaccine is injected into the upper thigh muscle. For older children who can walk, it’s usually given in the upper arm muscle. Each dose is 0.5mL.
Dosage Schedule
Infants under 6 months: 3 doses given 1-2 months apart, plus a booster. Infants 6-12 months: 2 doses given 1-2 months apart, plus a booster. Children over 12 months: Single dose of 0.5mL.
What If Your Child Misses a Dose?
If your child misses a scheduled dose, contact your doctor and arrange another appointment as soon as possible.
Important: Keep follow-up appointments to ensure your child receives all necessary doses for full protection.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Pain, redness, swelling at injection site
- Fever
- Irritability
- Vomiting
- Uncontrollable or abnormal crying
- Unusual tiredness
- Runny nose
- Diarrhea
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Extensive swelling of the vaccinated limb
- Large injection site reactions (more than 50mm)
- Swelling of lower limbs with blue/purple skin coloration
- Itchy rash, generalized rash, face swelling
- Throat swelling
- Allergic reactions (hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue)
- Convulsions (with or without fever)
Important Warnings
There are certain situations when Act-HIB should not be given or when special precautions are needed.
Who Should Not Receive Act-HIB
Do not give Act-HIB if your child is allergic to the vaccine, formaldehyde, or any ingredients listed. Also avoid if your child has had a life-threatening reaction to this vaccine before, or if they have a fever or acute illness (wait until recovery).
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if your child has a weakened immune system, bleeding disorder, latex allergy, history of fainting with injections, or any other medical conditions. Also mention if your child is taking any other medications.
Allergic Reactions: Watch for signs of allergic reactions including difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue, skin rash, itching, or hives.
Drug Interactions
Tell your healthcare provider about all medications and vaccines your child is taking or has recently received.
Vaccine Timing: Your doctor will advise if Act-HIB can be given with other vaccines as separate injections.
- Other vaccines given within the last 4 weeks
- Medicines that suppress the immune system
- Any prescription or over-the-counter medications
- Vitamins or supplements
Storage
Act-HIB is typically stored at your doctor’s office, clinic, or pharmacy. If you need to store it, keep it in the refrigerator at 2°C – 8°C. Never freeze the vaccine as freezing destroys it. Store in original packaging away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
Overdose is very unlikely since Act-HIB is given by healthcare professionals. If you have any concerns about the dose your child received, contact your doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Act-HIB can be given to children from 2 months to 5 years of age. The dosing schedule varies depending on when your child starts the vaccination series.
This depends on your child’s age when starting. Infants under 6 months need 3 doses plus a booster. Those 6-12 months need 2 doses plus a booster. Children over 12 months need only a single dose.
Yes, your doctor may give Act-HIB with other vaccines as separate injections. Always tell your doctor about any vaccines your child has received in the last 4 weeks.
Fever is a common side effect. Speak to your doctor if the fever concerns you or if your child doesn’t feel well after vaccination.
No, Act-HIB only protects against Haemophilus Influenzae type b infections. It does not protect against other types of Haemophilus Influenzae or meningitis from other causes.
Contact your doctor and arrange another appointment as soon as possible to get back on schedule with the vaccination series.
No, the tetanus protein in Act-HIB cannot replace your child’s regular tetanus vaccination schedule. Your child still needs their routine tetanus immunizations.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.