This study demonstrates an increased frequency and
severity of infections for children in day care. However,
there is evidence to support the notion that the evolution of
immunity to a number of infectious agents may protect the
day care child during later preschool or early elementary
school years) 8 Perhaps during the third or fourth year of
life, the child who was enrolled in day care at an early age
will have reduced illness rates when compared with a group
of children initially cared for at home who belatedly enter
group care arrangements. Large numbers of children will
have to be studied longitudinally to determine the duration
of the increased risk of infection for children in day
care.