Age Group Most Susceptible to Croup
Children between 6 months and 3 years of age are most susceptible to croup, with peak incidence occurring between 1 and 2 years of age. 1, 2
Epidemiology by Age
Peak incidence occurs at 1-2 years of age, with a rate of 60 per 1000 child-years in this age group 2
The median age of presentation is 23 months (approximately 2 years old), with males representing 63% of cases 3
The typical age range for croup is 6 months to 6 years, though the vast majority of cases occur in younger children within this range 4, 5, 1
Children under 2 years represent the highest-risk group for severe disease requiring hospitalization and intensive interventions 3
Clinical Context
Croup accounts for 7% of hospitalizations annually for fever and/or acute respiratory illness in children younger than 5 years 1
The disease is characterized by inspiratory stridor, barking cough, and hoarseness resulting from viral-induced swelling of the larynx and trachea 1, 2
Parainfluenza virus type 1 is the most common causative agent, though other viruses including respiratory syncytial virus can also cause croup 6, 2
Important Clinical Considerations
Age under 18 months is a specific criterion for considering hospital admission in children with croup, as younger infants are at higher risk for complications 3
The neutral head position with a roll under the shoulders is recommended for children under 2 years to optimize airway patency during treatment 3