Haemophilus influenzae
Haemophilus influenzae
Haemophilus influenzae (pronunciation: hee-muh-fil-uhs in-floo-en-zee) is a bacteria that can cause a variety of serious diseases, particularly in children. The name is derived from the Greek words "haima" (blood) and "philos" (loving), and "influenzae" due to its initial discovery during an influenza pandemic.
Description
Haemophilus influenzae is a small, Gram-negative bacteria. It is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen. The bacteria is usually found in the human respiratory tract and can cause a variety of infections.
Types
There are several types of Haemophilus influenzae, the most significant of which is Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). This type is particularly dangerous and can cause severe diseases such as meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis.
Diseases
Haemophilus influenzae can cause a variety of diseases, particularly in children. These include:
- Meningitis: An infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
- Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs.
- Epiglottitis: A potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the epiglottis becomes inflamed.
Prevention and Treatment
Vaccination with the Hib vaccine is the most effective way to prevent diseases caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Haemophilus influenzae
- Wikipedia's article - Haemophilus influenzae
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