2. Family History and Race
Genetics play a significant role in developing the risk profile for otitis media infection. Studies show that those groups most at risk of developing otitis media infection are Native Americans and the Inuit people. These communities have elements of their society that make them more predisposed to otitis media.
Your family history also plays a part in determining your risk profile for a middle ear infection. If your siblings or parents have problems with a frequent ear infection, it may be due to some genetic abnormality that makes them prone to disease. As a result, you may also be at risk of frequent bouts of otitis media as well.
People with a family history of otitis media or reside in Native American or Inuit communities may want to consider vaccination against pneumococcal infections to prevent otitis infection from occurring. Contrary to what you may have heard or seen on YouTube, vaccines are a safe and efficient means of protecting yourself and your family against infectious disease.