Which statement about Hib vaccine contraindications is true?

Which statement about Hib vaccine contraindications is true?

• A. Age under 6 weeks
• B. Mild respiratory infection
• C. History of varicella
• D. Any allergies to Hib vaccine components

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that contraindications to Hib vaccination come from safety concerns about severe allergic reactions. The statement that allergy to Hib vaccine components is a contraindication is true because a proven anaphylactic or other severe allergic reaction to any component of the Hib vaccine means it should not be given again. Mild illnesses, like a mild respiratory infection, are not contraindications; vaccination can proceed if the child is reasonably well. A history of varicella has no bearing on Hib vaccination, since prior varicella infection does not affect Hib safety or effectiveness. Age under 6 weeks isn’t a contraindication in the sense of safety concerns; Hib vaccines are started at about 2 months (depending on the brand), so being younger than that just means the vaccine isn’t due yet.

The key idea is that contraindications to Hib vaccination come from safety concerns about severe allergic reactions. The statement that allergy to Hib vaccine components is a contraindication is true because a proven anaphylactic or other severe allergic reaction to any component of the Hib vaccine means it should not be given again.

Mild illnesses, like a mild respiratory infection, are not contraindications; vaccination can proceed if the child is reasonably well. A history of varicella has no bearing on Hib vaccination, since prior varicella infection does not affect Hib safety or effectiveness. Age under 6 weeks isn’t a contraindication in the sense of safety concerns; Hib vaccines are started at about 2 months (depending on the brand), so being younger than that just means the vaccine isn’t due yet.