Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae

What is nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae?

Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (pronounced he-mo-FILL-us in-flu-EN-zay-ee) strains are a group of bacteria that are part of the normal flora of the human upper respiratory tract. However, they are also implicated in a wide range of diseases. Infections caused by nontypeable H. influenzae are major health and socioeconomic burdens. For example, lower respiratory tract infections caused by nontypeable H. influenzae strains are responsible for significant mortality in both infants and children in developing countries, and represent a major cause of morbidity in both developed and developing countries.

Is nontypeable H. influenzae infection fatal?

In general, carriers of nontypeable H. influenzae are healthy but occasionally develop acute, localized infections (e.g., otitis media, sinusitis, pneumonia, conjunctivitis). In addition, infection can aggravate underlying lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis. Less frequently, these bacteria can also cause conditions such as septicemia, endocarditis, epiglottitis, septic arthritis and meningitis.

How is nontypeable H. influenzae infection treated?

Although nontypeable H. influenzae infection is typically treated with antibiotics, prevention of infection would provide considerable health and economic benefits.