A deadly bacterial disease is returning, doctors warn, as vaccination rates fall
By Erika Edwards
Published on April 2, 2026.
Doctors are warning that a potentially deadly bacterial disease, Haemophilus influenzae type b, known as Hib, may return as a resurgence due to decreasing vaccination rates. Prior to the introduction of the Hib vaccine, around 20,000 children in the US, mostly babies and toddlers, developed severe forms of Hib, which left many children with permanent brain damage and about 1,000 deaths each year. The number of Hib infections dropped to fewer than 50 a year after vaccinations began. Now, parents are increasingly opting out of vaccinating their children against Hib. Utah's state epidemiologist, Dr. Leisha Nolen, warned that as more people stop vaccinating children against diseases, Hib could make a comeback.
Related Articles
Kabukicho psychiatrist accused of raping female patient has long history of abusing women - TokyoReporter
Tokyo psychiatrist Jun Izawa, arrested for sexually assaulting a patient, has a history of domestic violence and drug abuse, leading to his arrest.
Kennedy sidelining of US advisory panel delays updates to cancer screening guidelines
US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy's absence of an advisory panel delays cancer screening guidelines, impacting commercial insurance coverage and potentially impacting other health benefits.
Letters: Medicaid cuts will devastate access to behavioral health care
The Medicaid cuts will significantly reduce access to mental health and substance use, significantly impacting underserved populations and calling for changes in how services are delivered.