Despite your natural concern for your child's health and comfort, there is good news: most children outgrow ear infections by the age of three to five. But if your child continues to get ear infections, it can lead to hearing problems later on. The best way to prevent ear infections is by getting kids vaccinated against them. The CDC recommends that children receive their first dose of the vaccine by 12 months old and a second dose before entering kindergarten. The vaccine protects against seven types of bacteria known to cause ear infections. Children who have not been vaccinated will still get ear infections, but they may be caused by different bacteria. So even though your unvaccinated child gets an infection, it won't protect him or her against future infections. Ear infections are very painful and will keep your child from sleeping or eating. If you notice your child is having trouble sleeping or eating, take him or her to the doctor so that an infection does not become worse.