Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi)

Abstract

In this infographic the diseases caused by nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi), including otitis media, are discussed. Encapsulated type b Haemophilus influenzae (Hib) was responsible for most of the invasive disease (meningitis) prior to the use of Hib vaccines. As Hib vaccines have no effect on infections due to nontypeable H. influenzae (NTHi), in areas where Hib vaccines are used, nontypeable strains are now the most common cause of invasive disease. Moreover, NTHi contributes to the ∼21000 otitis media (OM)-associated deaths per year. Due to this collective global morbidity and mortality, concerted vaccine development is underway. In addition to preventing disease, an effective vaccine will likely help to mitigate the global crisis of antibiotic resistance. Since 1973, ampicillin resistance due to NTHi's production of β-lactamase has been recognized; however, a significant concern is the more recent emergence and spread of β-lactamase-negative-ampicillin-resistant (BLNAR) strains in many regions of the world. As such, H. influenzae is one of 12 bacterial pathogens that are considered priority pathogens by the World Health Organization.