Both of my older kids had chronic ear infections; does this mean my new baby will, too?

Not necessarily: Family history - mother's and father's, and sibling's - can suggest a predilection for ear infections, but it is only a tendency, not definite. If there is a family history, monitor closely.

Not necessarily: Maybe. The odds are higher. But, it isn't for certain. The family may have an anatomy that makes ear infections at a young age more likely, but other factors such as smoke exposure or allergies may also have a huge impact.

No: It seems your older children had recurrent ear infections, i.e., more than three infections within a year. Genetics plays some role in making a child more susceptible to develop ear infection. Besides, attending day care program and second hand smoking increase the chance as well. On the other hand, breast feeding and getting timely shots of flu and pneumococcus (prevnar) work opposite.

Not necessary: It may not be the same for the youngest child.