Hib pathogen spreads fear in Hamburg: addicts face great danger!

Hib pathogen spreads fear in Hamburg: addicts face great danger!

In Hamburg, an aggressive respiratory pathogen is making worrying headlines, especially among the vulnerable group of addicts and homeless people. Since the end of December 2024, the Hib pathogen (Haemophilus influenzae type b) has spread in the Hanseatic city and is putting a strain on the health authorities. A total of 16 cases had been registered by August 5, 2025, and three people had already died as a result of this severe pneumonia and blood poisoning NDR reported.

The danger posed by the Hib pathogen primarily affects people with weakened immune systems, for whom the likelihood of severe disease is significantly higher. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has determined that hib infections usually occur in infants and young children. However, the current cases in Hamburg are particularly alarming because those affected are between 26 and 58 years old and some live in homeless shelters or are heavily addicted to drugs. These findings come from reports from T Online.

Causes and routes of transmission

The hib pathogen is transmitted through droplet infection, which means that infection is also possible in subsequent situations. Healthy adults may be able to carry the bacteria without symptoms. Those responsible are aware that drug consumption is a significant risk factor for serious illnesses. The use of inhaled drugs is particularly highlighted because it impairs spleen function and weakens immune defenses. This information can also be found in the statements by Pharmacy look around.

In order to contain this dangerous situation, the Hamburg social authorities have responded to the increasing number of cases and initiated protective measures in emergency shelters and drug consumption rooms. However, Ronald Kelm from the Hamburg Health Mobile criticizes the provision of information about offers of help as insufficient. “We need clear information so that those affected can also take advantage of the vaccination offer,” said Kelm. This initiative also includes the offer of 120 doses of vaccination, which will be administered in advice centers such as Drob Inn at the main train station and Abgrigado in Altona.

Vaccination and prevention

The importance of vaccination is emphasized not only in Hamburg, but nationwide. Since the 1990s, when the Hib vaccination was introduced, severe cases of the disease have declined significantly. The Standing Vaccination Commission recommends vaccination for all infants. Unvaccinated children under the age of five and people with immunodeficiency would be particularly at risk, while healthy adults usually have mild cases. However, it is important to emphasize that the overall risk to the general population is low as infections are limited to certain risk groups.

The health department and the social welfare authorities are doing everything they can to keep this situation under control. Nevertheless, the challenge remains to facilitate contact with those affected and to increase willingness to vaccinate. Between housing shortages and drug addiction, access to preventative measures is often difficult for many people. It is up to all of us to support the offers of help and respond to the needs of these vulnerable people.