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The goals of prevention are decreasing exposure to common ear pathogens, boosting immunity, and improving the function of the Eustachian tube.
To decrease exposure, smaller day care size, especially in the winter months, can make a big difference. Day cares of 6 or fewer children result in measurably fewer ear infections. Frequent hand and toy washing is also helpful. Fresh air and air filters decrease exposure to airborne pathogens. Also, avoid the overuse of antibiotics. The overuse of antibiotics breeds increasingly effective disease-causing bacteria.
Breastfeeding for even a few weeks will make a child less prone to ear infections for years. The pneumococcal vaccine can prevent infections from the most common cause of acute ear infection (which leads to OME). The flu vaccine can also help.
To aid proper Eustachian tube function, avoid irritants such as cigarette smoke. Avoid drinking while lying flat, and discontinue pacifier use as early as practical. Up to 40% of cases of OME have an allergic component, so identifying and avoiding allergens can be very effective prevention.
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