How common are middle-ear infections?

Ear infection is one of the most common childhood illnesses. Up to 95% of all children have a middle-ear infection (otitis media) at least once by the time they are 7 years old. Most ear infections occur in children up to 3 years of age.1 Otitis media is not very common in adults.

Ear infections are more common in males, First Nations, Inuit Natives, and Aboriginal Australians.



Author: Debby Golonka, MPHLast Updated: June 21, 2007
Medical Review: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine

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