How to Prevent Ear Infections in Children
Most ear infections start as a cold and progress to an infection of the middle ear caused by bacteria.
Instructions
- Step 1: Avoid cigarette smoke Avoid places with cigarette smoke especially when you are with your children. Ear infections occur more often in children exposed to cigarette smoke.
- TIP: Babies and young children with ear infections may pull at their ears, have a fever, and have trouble sleeping.
- Step 2: Limit use of childcare Limit the use of large childcare facilities where there is an increased risk of catching a cold.
- Step 3: Breastfeed If you can, breastfeed your baby the first six to 12 months. Breast milk has antibodies that aid in reducing ear infections.
- Step 4: Avoid bottle at bedtime Avoid having your child going to sleep while sucking on a bottle or drinking while laying down.
- Step 5: Wash hands Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching the nose and eyes with germy hands.
- Step 6: Have child immunized Have your child immunized.
- FACT: Most ear infections occur in children between the ages of six months and two years.
You Will Need
- Breast milk
- Clean hands
- Immunizations
