Prevention:

Appropriate treatment of localized infections can prevent septicemia. The Haemophilus influenza B (HIB) vaccine has already reduced the number of cases of Haemophilus septicemia and is a routine part of the recommended childhood immunization schedule.

Children who have had their spleen removed or who have diseases that damage the spleen (such as sickle cell anemia) should receive pneumococcal vaccine. Pneumococcal vaccine is not part of the routine childhood immunization schedule.

Persons who are in close contact with someone with septicemia may be prescribed preventative antibiotics.