Who is at risk for developing bronchiolitis?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing bronchiolitis, including:

1.Age:Bronchiolitis most commonly affects infants and young children, particularly those under the age of 2. This is because their airways are smaller and more easily blocked by inflammation and mucus.

2. Premature birth: Premature infants have underdeveloped lungs and immune systems, making them more susceptible to respiratory infections like bronchiolitis.

3. Being born during the winter months: Bronchiolitis tends to occur more frequently during the winter season, likely due to increased exposure to respiratory viruses and closer indoor contact.

4. Exposure to tobacco smoke: Children who are exposed to tobacco smoke, either during pregnancy or after birth, have an increased risk of developing respiratory infections like bronchiolitis.

5. Crowded living conditions: Living in crowded environments, such as daycare centers or households with multiple siblings, can increase the risk of exposure to respiratory viruses that cause bronchiolitis.

6. Chronic lung or heart conditions: Children with underlying chronic lung or heart conditions may be more susceptible to severe cases of bronchiolitis.

7. Weakened immune system: Children with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as immunodeficiency disorders or chemotherapy treatment are at higher risk of developing severe bronchiolitis.

It's important to take preventive measures, such as practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, and minimizing contact with sick individuals, to reduce the risk of bronchiolitis, especially in high-risk populations.