What is the typical age range most affected by acute otitis media?

Acute otitis media is most commonly seen in younger children, particularly in newborns and infants under 2 years old. This age group has anatomical and physiological characteristics that increase their susceptibility to middle ear infections. For example, the Eustachian tube in infants is shorter and more horizontal than in older children and adults, making it easier for pathogens to reach the middle ear from the nasopharynx. Additionally, this age group often experiences frequent respiratory infections, which can lead to inflammation and blockage of the Eustachian tube, further contributing to the likelihood of developing acute otitis media.

While children aged 2 to 5 years old can also be affected, they are typically less at risk than infants, as their Eustachian tubes begin to grow longer and more vertical, reducing the incidence of infections. The other age groups, such as adults and seniors, generally have much lower rates of acute otitis media due to the anatomical changes and increased immunity that develop with age. Thus, the most affected demographic remains infants and very young children.