Long-Term Effects of Haemophilus Influenzae

According to the New York State Department of Health, haemophilus influenzae is a bacterial illness that can lead to a potentially deadly brain infection. The vaccine to prevent this illness was introduced in 1988, and has since decreased infection rates up to 99 percent. Originally common amongst newborns and younger children, haemophilus influenza is seen more in the elderly and individuals who have been improperly vaccinated. Developing this illness has been proven to cause many serious long-term effects.

Bacterial Meningitis

• Before the haemophilus influenzae vaccine (Hib vaccine) became available, it was the leading cause of bacterial meningitis children younger than 5. Bacterial meningitis spreads from the respiratory tract to the bloodstream, and then finds its way to the meninges. Once there, the bacteria from the infection produce inflammation that causes an individual to be seriously ill, and sometimes causes death. Symptoms of bacterial meningitis include fever; irritability; nausea followed with vomiting; back, head, and neck pain; sensitivity to light; and severe headaches.

Pneumonia

• Another long-term side effect of contracting haemophilus influenzae is pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection that can occur in one or both lungs and, up until the discovery of antibiotics, was responsible for killing one-third of people who contracted it. Often confused with a common cold, pneumonia will start with a cough or sore throat, but with pneumonia the symptoms will advance to high fevers; chills; body shakes; and heavy, discolored mucus.

Arthritis

• Arthritis is a long-term effect of haemophilus influenza.

  Arthritis is another long-term effect for people who have suffered from haemophilus influenzae. Arthritis is a condition in which inflammation of the joint's cartilage occurs, which causes the bones to grind against each other, resulting in stiffness and loss of movement in the joint. If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or redness in your joints, consult with your doctor immediately. Other signs that arthritis may be present are fatigue, high fever, or difficulty performing your usual activities.