What age group is primarily affected by bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis primarily affects infants aged 2 to 6 months. This age group is particularly vulnerable due to the immaturity of their respiratory systems and their smaller airway size, which can lead to more significant obstruction and difficulty breathing when they contract respiratory infections, most commonly caused by viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Infants in this age range often have not yet developed adequate immune responses, making them more susceptible to viral lung infections. As a result, bronchiolitis can lead to wheezing, respiratory distress, and increased respiratory effort, necessitating medical attention.

Although newborns up to 1 month old can develop respiratory issues, bronchiolitis is most commonly diagnosed in older infants who are in the 2 to 6-month range. Children aged 1 to 3 years and 4 to 6 years may experience upper respiratory infections but typically do not present with bronchiolitis, as their airways are sufficiently developed to handle mild viral infections more effectively.