Mylee's Story

Her devastated parents learned after her autopsy that Mylee’s cause of death was Hib and, while she was vaccinated, she had inherited an immune condition that prevented protection from immunisation. Having people in our community vaccinated is important for vulnerable children like Mylee and could have saved her life.

Definition: Hib is a bacterial infection caused by Haemophilus Influenza type B. Hib causes serious illness and death if not urgently treated.

Symptoms: General symptoms may be present and include fatigue, fever, feeling unwell and more. Complications include pneumonia, bacterial meningitis, cellulitis, osteomyelitis and epiglottitis.

Prevention: Since vaccination was introduced in 1993, incidence of Hib has reduced by 95 per cent. Vaccination is the best protection. At most risk are infants and children under five years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, those over 65 years or with a weakened immune system.

Access: Hib vaccination is available through GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services and immunisation clinics. Vaccination is free for to those eligible through the National Immunisation Program (NIP).

Hib is a vaccine preventable disease.