Hamburg witnesses a Hib infectious disease outbreak: Identifying the vulnerable and the protected groups
In the heart of Germany, Hamburg has been grappling with an outbreak of the bacterial disease Haemophilus influenzae Type b (Hib), with 16 cases and three unfortunate deaths reported [2]. This outbreak has raised concerns and increased awareness, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The main groups affected by the outbreak are individuals who use drugs and those without a fixed address [1]. Drug consumption, such as with a pipe, is suspected to be a risk factor for Hib infection, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) [3]. To combat the spread, Hamburg is offering vaccinations in drug consumption rooms, aiming to reach as many people as possible from the risk group [4].
Before the introduction of the Hib vaccination in 1990, Hib was a severe and often fatal childhood disease [6]. However, thanks to the vaccination, the disease is now virtually non-existent in healthy children over the age of five [7]. In fact, in 2018, the vaccination rate among school starters was 91.4 percent [8].
The Hib vaccination is part of the standard vaccinations for infants in Germany [9]. For adults, the current recommendations emphasize vaccination primarily for adults at risk such as health care providers, laboratory workers handling Hib, and those with specific medical conditions or occupational exposure [1][5]. Routine Hib vaccination in adults is generally limited but may be intensified for at-risk groups during outbreaks.
The Adult Immunization Board (AIB), a European multidisciplinary expert group, provides guidance on adult vaccines including Hib [1]. There is no broad universal adult Hib vaccination recommendation; instead, vaccination is targeted and based on risk assessment and local epidemiology [3]. WHO and European programs emphasize life course immunization, but specific routine adult Hib immunization is not universally adopted except in specific scenarios or outbreak control [3].
It's important to note that the RKI has stated that there is no cause for concern for healthy individuals [3]. Chronic pre-existing conditions, smoking, or malnutrition could contribute to immune weakness that favors an invasive Hib infection [3]. Hib is transmitted through droplets, by coughing, sneezing, or close face contact [3].
The Standing Vaccination Commission is currently advising on whether to adjust the recommendations for the Hib vaccination, aiming to build immunity and prevent further infections in Hamburg [2]. An Hib infection can become life-threatening within a few hours [3]. Invasive disease mainly affects young children, but adults may carry Hib in their nasal pharynx, but healthy individuals are able to eliminate the pathogen [6].
In light of the outbreak, it is advised that adults check the latest local public health advisories in Germany for precise and up-to-date recommendations. For the general adult population, routine Hib vaccination remains uncommon unless local guidelines adjust due to the outbreak situation.
References:
- Adult Immunization Board (AIB)
- Hamburg Health Authority
- World Health Organization
- Hamburg Vaccination Campaign
- Robert Koch Institute
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- German Immunization Schedule
- Statista - Immunization rate in Germany
- German Immunization Schedule for Infants
- The bacterial disease Haemophilus influenzae Type b (Hib) has caused concern in Hamburg, Germany, resulting in 16 cases and three deaths.
- Vulnerable populations, such as individuals who use drugs and the homeless, are primarily affected by the outbreak.
- Drug consumption, particularly using a pipe, is suspected to be a risk factor for Hib infection, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).
- Hamburg is offering vaccinations in drug consumption rooms to combat the spread of the disease.
- Before the introduction of the Hib vaccination in 1990, it was a severe and often fatal childhood disease.
- In 2018, the vaccination rate among school starters in Germany was 91.4 percent.
- The Hib vaccination is part of the standard vaccinations for infants in Germany.
- For adults, vaccination recommendations emphasize vaccination for those at risk, such as healthcare providers and those with specific medical conditions.
- The Adult Immunization Board (AIB) provides guidance on adult vaccines, including Hib.
- There is no broad universal adult Hib vaccination recommendation; instead, vaccination is targeted and based on risk assessment and local epidemiology.
- Chronic pre-existing conditions, smoking, or malnutrition could contribute to immune weakness that favors an invasive Hib infection.
- Hib is transmitted through droplets, by coughing, sneezing, or close face contact.
- The Standing Vaccination Commission is currently advising on whether to adjust the recommendations for the Hib vaccination.
- An Hib infection can become life-threatening within a few hours.
- Invasive disease mainly affects young children, but adults may carry Hib in their nasal pharynx.
- Healthy individuals are able to eliminate the Hib pathogen from their bodies.
- It is advised that adults in Germany check the latest local public health advisories for precise and up-to-date recommendations.
- Routine Hib vaccination remains uncommon for the general adult population.
- Local guidelines may adjust due to the outbreak situation, which could impact routine Hib vaccination for adults.
- The World Health Organization and European programs emphasize life course immunization.
- Specific routine adult Hib immunization is not universally adopted except in specific scenarios or outbreak control.
- Science plays a crucial role in understanding and combating the spread of diseases like Hib.
- Sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, which can help prevent the onset of diseases.
- Workplace-wellness programs can help improve employee health and reduce potential outbreaks of diseases like Hib.
- Medical conditions, such as chronic diseases and autoimmune disorders, can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to diseases like Hib.
- Cancer, respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, hearing issues, and neurological disorders can be exacerbated by weakened immune systems.
- Mental health and men's health, as well as sexual health, skin care, and therapies and treatments, are important aspects of overall health and wellness.
- Fitness and exercise, along with proper nutrition and aging gracefully, contribute to maintaining a strong and healthy body to ward off diseases like Hib.
