Suggest Treatment For Sore Throat Caused By Haemophilus Infection

Posted on Wed, 10 Feb 2016

Question: Hi, After dealing with a sore throat on and off for 9 weeks, I saw an ENT who performed a culture and found that I had a haemophilus infection. Is this common or concerning? He suggested treating it with 10 days of Levaquin (I'm allergic to penicillin). I do not like the side effects associated with this drug and dislike taking new meds in general, but I will if I have to. How likely is it that my throat pain is caused my this hib bacteria (isn't it found in the nose and throats of most healthy adults without issue?)? Also, should I seek treatment for my 4 young kids and my husband?

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Most strains are oppertunistic pathogens.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM.

I have gone through your query. Haemophilus inluenza , most strains are opportunistic pathogenic bacteria. Reduced immunity or viral infections can cause them to give infections. Penicillins like Amoxicillin are not effective for Haemophilus inluenza. We usually give azithromycin or (levofloxacin) Levaquin for this. You can take and finish the antibiotic Levaquin. This will help to clear the infection. taking chewable vitamin C is also good.

You don't need to seek treatment for your husband and kids if they don't have any symptoms of infection.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Nishad BN (1 hour later)

Thank you. I'm nervous to take Levaquin due to risk of severe side effects. Can I take z-pack for this even if I had one in mid November? Thanks

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Azithromycin ( z pack) is also effective for this.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome again.

Azithromycin ( z pack ) is also effective for haemophilus influenza. You can ask your doctor to change to z pack. Levaquin will give broad coverage than z pack. So it is better to inform your treating doctor before changing.

Let me know if anything not clear.
Thanks.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar