Why are children so prone to ear infections?

According to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia:

Young children are more likely than adults to get ear infections because their eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower, and horizontal. This makes it easier for bacteria to get in and more difficult for fluid to drain. Also, young children have weaker immune systems, making it harder for them to fight off infection.

While anyone may develop an ear infection, a child is more likely to get one if he or she:

• Has a family history of ear infections
• Has a poor immune system
• Is around someone who smokes/air pollution
• Spends time in a daycare setting
• Is bottle-fed instead of breastfed or pacifier use
• Drinks from a bottle while laying on his or her back