Hemophilus influenzae
Hemophilus influenzae (pronunciation: hee-mo-fil-us in-floo-en-zee) is a bacteria that can cause a variety of serious diseases, particularly in children. It was first described in the late 19th century and was initially believed to be the cause of influenza, hence its name. However, it is now known that influenza is caused by a virus, not a bacterium.
Etymology
The name Hemophilus influenzae derives from the Greek words haima (blood), philos (loving), and influenza (influence). The bacterium was so named because it was first isolated during an influenza pandemic and was mistakenly thought to be the cause of the disease. It was later discovered that H. influenzae requires blood factors for growth, hence the "hemophilus" part of its name.
Types
There are several types of Hemophilus influenzae, the most significant of which is Hemophilus influenzae type b, or Hib. This strain can cause severe diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis. Other non-typable strains (those that do not have a capsule) can cause ear and respiratory tract infections.
Treatment and Prevention
Hemophilus influenzae infections can be treated with antibiotics. A vaccine is also available to prevent H. influenzae type b diseases. This vaccine has greatly reduced the incidence of serious H. influenzae diseases in countries where it is routinely used.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hemophilus influenzae
- Wikipedia's article - Hemophilus influenzae
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