What has significantly reduced the incidence of acute epiglottitis?

The significant reduction in the incidence of acute epiglottitis is primarily due to immunization with the Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccine. Prior to the widespread use of this vaccine, Hib was a common cause of serious infections in young children, including epiglottitis, which is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, potentially leading to life-threatening airway obstruction.

The introduction of the Hib vaccine has led to a dramatic decrease in the number of cases of these infections. This is because the vaccine effectively prevents the colonization of the bacteria responsible for causing epiglottitis and other serious diseases. In populations with high vaccination coverage, cases of epiglottitis related to Hib have become extremely rare.

In contrast, while steroids can be beneficial in managing inflammation in acute epiglottitis, they do not address the underlying infectious cause. Accessibility to pediatric care and improved sanitation practices may contribute to better overall health outcomes and disease prevention, but they have not had as direct and significant an impact on the specific incidence of acute epiglottitis as the Hib vaccine has.