- Caring for Kids - Ear Infections: English and Français
- Public Health Ontario Ear Infection Poster
Ear Infections
Middle ear infections are also called otitis media. They are very common, especially in children between 6 months and 3 years of age. They are usually not serious. Although not contagious, the viral illness that caused the infection can be. Most ear infections happen when a child has already had a cold for a few days.
More Information about Ear Infections
Individual cases are not reportable to the Health Unit.
Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have an ear infection?
No exclusion necessary, unless too ill to participate in activities or has a fever with behavioural change.
Follow the direction of your healthcare provider or occupational health at your workplace.
Note: Exclusion guidelines may differ for healthcare workers.
Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.
Last updated: June 2025, by CDC