Acute bronchitis due to Haemophilus influenzae

**Definition:** A disease of the bronchi, caused by an infection with the gram-negative bacteria Haemophilus influenzae. This disease is characterised by acute inflammation of the bronchi leading to cough, sputum production, wheezing or shortness of breath. Transmission is by inhalation of infected respiratory secretions, or direct contact. Confirmation is by identification of Haemophilus influenzae in blood or other typically sterile body fluid.

**Long definition:** Rapid onset inflammation of the large airways in the lung, including any part of the bronchi, due to infection with haemophilus influenzae bacteria.