Haemophilus influenzae disease

Treatment

How is invasive Haemophilus influenzae diagnosed? What is the treatment?

Diagnosing invasive Haemophilus influenzae

Invasive Haemophilus influenzae (Hi) is diagnosed based on symptoms and laboratory tests.

Only your health care provider can diagnose the disease by using laboratory test results and examining your physical symptoms. See your doctor early if you suspect you may have invasive Hi since early treatment is most effective.

Your health care provider must report all cases of invasive Hi to your local health authority.

Treating invasive Haemophilus influenzae

Invasive Haemophilus influenzae (Hi) is treated with antibiotics.

Even with treatment, about 5% of children (1 in 20) with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) meningitis will not survive. Among those who live, about 33% (1 in 3) has permanent brain damage.