Prevention of otitis media

You cannot prevent every ear infection, but several steps lower the risk, especially in children.

Steps that help

• Vaccines: keep pneumococcal, Hib and yearly flu vaccines up to date
• Breastfeeding: exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months protects babies
• Feed upright: do not prop bottles or feed a baby lying flat
• Avoid smoke: no smoking around children and avoid heavy air pollution where possible
• Hand washing: reduces colds, which often lead to ear infection
• Limit exposure to colds: keep sick children home when possible and limit large day care groups for very young babies
• Treat allergies and nasal blockage as advised
• Clean pacifiers and avoid pacifier use after 6 to 12 months if infections recur
• Dry ears after swimming: tilt the head to let water drain, and do not insert cotton buds

For adults

Manage allergies and sinus problems, stop smoking, and swallow or yawn during flights to equalise pressure. Avoid flying with a heavy cold when possible.

Ayurvedic view

Traditional advice includes avoiding cold wind on the head, staying warm in cold weather and eating warm, light food during colds. These overlap with sensible modern advice. Claims that a herb or oil prevents ear infection are not proven.