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Haemophilus influenzae

bacteria
Also known as: Hemophilus influenzae, influenza bacillus

Quick Summary

Haemophilus influenzae is a genus of bacteria that are gram-negative and typically coccobacillus in shape. These bacteria are strict parasites found in the mouth, upper respiratory tract, and intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals, including humans. While some species cause disease in animals, H. influenzae is a significant cause of various infections in humans, such as ear, skin, and blood infections.1

A particularly problematic strain is H. influenzae type b (Hib), which can lead to serious conditions like pneumonia and meningitis, especially in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Fortunately, effective Hib conjugate vaccines are available to prevent these infections.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Haemophilus
  2. influenza: Top Questions

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