What is epiglottitis ?

Epiglottitis is a life threatening bacterial infection of the epiglottis. This causes inflammation of the epiglottis and as a result obstruct the flow of air into your child’s lungs and prevent breathing. This infection is a medical emergency and immediate treatment is needed.

What causes epiglottitis ?

It is caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria. This bacteria is spread through infected droplets coughed or sneezed into the air. Other virus and bacteria that causes upper respiratory infections may also cause this disease.

Swallowing  a foreign object, burns from a hot liquid, physical injury to the throat or infections from chicken pox blisters can also cause epiglottitis.

Who is at risk ?

Children with weakened immune system and those who have not been vaccinated against Hib are susceptible to this disease. This infection can occur at any age but is more common in children under one.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include

• drooling
• fever
• sore throat
• difficulty breathing
• abnormal breathing sounds (stridor)

What do I do if I suspect my child has epiglottitis ?

If your child has epiglottitis , call 911 immediately. This disease progresses fast. Sit your child up to make it easier for him to get air.

Is there any treatment for this infection ?

If the doctor is sure child has epiglottitis, his priority will be to keep the child’s airways open. The doctor may give your child general anesthesia  so that he can place a breathing tube past her swollen epiglottis into her airway. The baby will be taken to the intensive care unit to be given IV  fluids and antibiotics. He may also be given anti inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. You will have to continue giving her antibiotics by mouth to eliminate any bacteria lingering in her system when you go home.

Can I protect my baby from epiglottitis ?

The Hib vaccine protects your child against epiglottitis. This vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenza type B which also causes pneumonia and meningitis. The shot is to be taken at these recommended ages :

• 2 months
•  4 months
•  6 months (not needed if the PedvaxHIB or Comvax brand of vaccine was given at 2 and 4 months)
• Between 12 and 15 months