Final answer:
Infants are at risk of developing acute otitis media (AOM), and factors such as immunizations and exposure to secondhand smoke can increase this risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acute otitis media (AOM) is an infection of the middle ear that often occurs in infants and young children. Several factors can put an infant at risk for AOM, including:
- Immunizations are up to date: Vaccinations, such as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and influenza vaccine, can decrease the risk of developing AOM.
- Parents smoke cigarettes outside: Exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of AOM, as it can irritate the lining of the middle ear and impair the function of the eustachian tubes.
These factors contribute to the incidence and severity of AOM in infants, highlighting the importance of preventive measures.