

32. Hurrying through Haemophilus
Oct 10, 2022
Join the hosts as they unravel the intriguing world of Haemophilus, correcting the myth that Haemophilus influenzae causes the flu. Discover the fascinating history behind its naming and explore various species linked to respiratory infections. Dive into the details of chancroid, the challenges of antibiotic resistance, and the significance of the Hib vaccine in childhood health. The conversation is lively and informative, touching on treatment complexities and the evolving landscape of infectious diseases.
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Dog Joke Introduces The Topic
- James jokes about his dog and a neighbor Phyllis to introduce Haemophilus influenzae.
- The joke plays on the misleading historical naming of H. influenzae after influenza.
Name Came From A Historical Mistake
- Haemophilus influenzae kept the name because Pfeiffer associated it with the 1892 influenza pandemic.
- Historical naming can reflect early incorrect assumptions about causation.
Assess Age And Splenic Function For Risk
- Consider age extremes and splenic dysfunction as key risk factors for invasive Haemophilus.
- Screen patients with asplenia, immune suppression, or complement deficiency for increased risk.