MMWR on Invasive Haemophilus Influenzae Type B

We call your attention to the recent MMWR (http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5803a4.htm?s_cid=mm5803a4_e) released by the CDC regarding Haemophilus influenzae serotype b in five young children in Minnesota (2008) detected through ongoing laboratory-based surveillance from the Active Bacterial Core surveillance system.  We remind you that Haemophilus influenzae, invasive, is a nationally reportable disease and has become a rare cause of invasive disease in the U.S. following implementation of the Hib vaccination program in the 1990s.  According to current CDC recommendations, laboratories should perform serotype testing of all INVASIVE H. influenzae isolates in children younger than 5 years of age.  Confirmation of serotype is also encouraged for invasive H. influenzae cases in other age groups, particularly children aged 5 to 14 years (CDC’s VPD Surveillance Manual, Chapter 2.  Surveillance information is used to monitor disease burden and to determine vaccine failure vs. failure to vaccinate.

Laboratories should review their state and local policies regarding serotyping, reporting criteria, and isolate submission.  

2-4-09