INFECTIONS CAN AFFECT HEARING AND SPEECH DEVELOPMENT
Besides pain and the dangers of infection, ear fluid build-up can dampen a child’ s ability to hear at a time when they are learning to understand speech and learning to talk. Regular pediatric exams should include hearing tests. Parents and caregivers should observe for any sign that an infant or child hears less well or does not hear sounds in one or both ears.
PREVENTING INFECTION As much as possible, parents can take some actions to prevent respiratory illnesses that may lead to ear infections:
• Vaccinate your child against the flu. Make sure your child gets the influenza, or flu, vaccine every year.
• It is recommended that you vaccinate your child with the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine( PCV13). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention( CDC) recommends that children under age 2 be vaccinated, starting at 2 months of age. Studies have shown that vaccinated children get far fewer ear infections than children who aren’ t vaccinated. The vaccine is strongly recommended for children in daycare.
• Wash your hands and your child’ s hands frequently. Washing hands prevents the spread of germs and can help keep your child from catching a cold or the flu.
• Avoid exposing your child to cigarette smoke. Studies have shown that babies who are around smokers have more ear infections.
• Never put your baby down for a nap, or for the night, with a bottle.
• Don’ t allow sick children to spend time together. As much as possible, limit your child’ s exposure to other children when your child or your child’ s playmates are sick.
EAR, NOSE & THROAT HEALTH ISSUE | AUGUST 2025 11 OURHEALTHNWA. COM