Impact of vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b with and without a booster dose on meningitis in four South American countries

To inform World Health Organization recommendations regarding use of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines in national immunization programs, a multi-country evaluation of trends in Hib meningitis incidence and prevalence of nasopharyngeal Hib carriage was conducted in four South American countries using either a primary, three-dose immunization schedule without a booster dose or with a booster dose in the second year of life. Surveillance data suggest that high coverage of Hib conjugate vaccine sustained low incidence of Hib meningitis and low prevalence of Hib carriage whether or not a booster dose was used.

► We analyzed Hib meningitis rates in four South American countries using Hib vaccine.
► Hib vaccination schedules included 3 doses and a booster dose in two countries.
► Vaccination reduced Hib meningitis incidence to low levels.
► Low incidence rates were maintained in countries with and without a booster dose.