Who is at risk to develop epiglottitis?

Epiglottitis: Children are more vulnerable to developing epiglottitis. This is an infection of the epiglottis (that cartilaginous structure at the back of the tongue that prevents food from dropping into the windpipe) by bacteria called hemophilus influenzae type b (hib). Fortunately enough, this infection has almost disappeared ever since the introduction of the hib vaccine.

Some risk factors: Certain increased risk factors. More males than females. Having weakened immune system, more susceptible to bacterial infections causing epiglottitis. Lacking adequate vaccination. Delayed or skipped immunizations make child vulnerable to Hemophilus influenzae, most common bacterium causing epiglottitis and increases the risk.