Ear Infections - Prevention

Prevention

The best way to prevent ear infections is to prevent colds and flu.

Good Hygiene. Colds and flus are spread primarily when an infected person coughs or sneezes near someone else. A very common method for transmitting a cold is by shaking hands. Everyone should always wash his or her hands before eating and after going outside. Ordinary soap is sufficient. Waterless hand cleaners that contain an alcohol-based gel are also effective for every day use and may even kill cold viruses. (They are less effective, however, if extreme hygiene is required. In such cases, alcohol-based rinses are needed.) Antibacterial soaps add little protection, particularly against viruses. In fact, one study suggests that common liquid dish washing soaps are up to 100 times more effective than antibacterial soaps in killing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is known to cause pneumonia and has been associated with ear infections. Wiping surfaces with a solution that contains 1 part bleach to 10 parts water is very effective in killing viruses.

Reducing Stress. Interestingly, giving children affection and helping them relax may help prevent colds. More than one study has reported that people with low stress who also have an active social life have fewer colds than people who have high stress levels or those who have low stress and few social connections.

Preventing Viral Influenza (the "Flu")

Preventing influenza (the "flu') may prove to be a more important protective measure against ear infections than preventing bacterial infections. For example, studies report that children who were vaccinated against influenza experienced 33 - 36% fewer ear infections during flu season than unvaccinated children. (The vaccine provided no additional protection at other times.)

Flu Vaccines. Vaccines against the flu currently employ inactivated (not live) viruses to produce an immune response that will then attack the active virus. Vaccines are given by injection, usually between October and December. Antibodies to the influenza virus usually develop within 2 weeks of vaccination, and immunity peaks within 4 to 6 weeks, then gradually wanes. A live but weakened intranasal vaccine called FluMist is approved for children ages 5 and older.