Masking is a simple but powerful tool to protect against the coronavirus ; Especially for children who are too young to be vaccinated.
Is wearing a mask harmful for children.
Masking is essential for all members of the community, as coronary heart disease patients may have no symptoms. Here are the details of masking for kids and talk about misconceptions about masking.
If you are worried about your child developing coronary heart disease and want to know if wearing a mask is harmful to children or not, do not miss this article.
Is it necessary for children to wear a mask?
The World Health Organization has the most authoritative opinion on this and has conducted various specialized studies. Based on the available information on children being carriers, and taking into account their psychological and developmental needs, the World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend:
According to the World Health Organization and UNICEF, the decision to wear a mask for children aged 6 to 11 should be made with the following in mind:
- Existence of widespread transmission of the disease in the child’s living area.
- The child’s ability to use the mask correctly and safely.
- Access to the mask and its replacement in various places (such as schools and child care centers).
- Adequate adult supervision and education of the child to wear, remove and use the mask properly.
- Possible effects of wearing a mask on learning and psychological development in relation to teachers, physicians, and parents.
- Specific conditions and the child’s relationship with people who are at high risk for serious illness, such as the elderly or those with an underlying illness.
Children over the age of 12 should wear masks according to adult conditions, especially when they can not be sure of keeping a distance of one meter with other people and live in an area with a high prevalence of coronary heart disease.
What children should not wear masks?
Children under 2 years old should not use the mask as they may not be able to remove it without assistance. Children with severe respiratory problems or cognitive impairments may also have difficulty wearing the mask on the face, and extra precautions are needed.
How to help a child get used to masking?
You need to understand that your child may be afraid to wear a mask. The following methods can help your child feel more comfortable:
- Look in the mirror while talking and talk about it.
- Mask for her favorite doll.
- Make masks with interesting and favorite decorations.
- Show your child pictures of other children wearing masks.
- Mask the characters in their favorite book.
- Practice using a mask at home to get your child used to it.
For children under 3 years.
The best way is to explain their questions in simple and understandable language. If asked why people should wear masks, explain that people need these masks to stay healthy.
For children over 3 years old.
Try to focus on the microbes. Explain that the body has its own bacteria and contaminants. Some bacteria are good and some are bad. Bad bacteria cause disease, and since it is not easy to tell the difference between good and bad, they must protect themselves with a mask and keep the bacteria out of their bodies.
How to properly mask for children.
Properly covered, it will withstand a lot of adverse conditions. These respiratory droplets play a key role in corona transmission because they can carry and transmit the virus. For effective use, masks should:
- Cover the mouth and nose.
- Cover your face tightly but comfortably.
- Secure the back of your ear with a bandage.
- Have several layers of fabric.
- Allow air to pass easily.
- Wash and dry after use (cloth masks).
Also, remember to wash your hands before and after applying the mask. When you get home, without pulling on the front of the mask, grab the two sides of the mask and remove it. Disinfect the mask or wash and dry thoroughly after each use.
Important tips for masking in children.
Children with weakened immune systems are more at risk for infection and it is best to use the N95 mask. People who do not have a specific disease can use a cloth mask.
If your child touches his mask, it is best to gently guide him to correct his behavior.
If your child is under 2 years old and can not protect himself with a mask, the best way is to maintain social distance and mask those around him.
Frequently Asked Questions about Masks for Kids.
Habits such as social distance, hand washing, and masking can protect you and your baby well against the Coronavirus; Even against the delta virus. Masks become more important for children when they are under 12 years old and unable to get the Corona vaccine.
Some parents may have concerns about masking their children, and we intend to address these concerns. Here are the most common questions about masking children:
Does the mask make it harder for the baby to breathe?
There are many concerns about reduced oxygen intake if masked. However, keep in mind that masks are made of a material that does not block the oxygen your baby needs. These masks do not affect the child’s concentration and learning.
Most children over the age of two can wear masks safely and for long periods of time. These include children with medical problems.
Does masking the baby’s lungs have problems?
No, wearing a mask has no effect on the growth of children’s lungs. Oxygen passes easily through the mask and only prevents the passage of respiratory droplets and saliva into the mouth. By preventing infections such as Covid 19, your baby’s lungs will be healthier.
Do masks hold exhaled carbon dioxide?
No. Misinformation has been reported about exhaled carbon dioxide poisoning, which raises concerns about the use of the mask. But you need to know that carbon dioxide molecules are very small and can not stay in the air-permeable fabrics. In fact, surgeons spend all day wearing tight masks without getting hurt. Is wearing a mask harmful for children.
Can a face shield replace a mask?
Some children may not be able to wear masks to protect themselves from the coronavirus. This may be due to a physical disability or special condition such as a speech therapy class in which the teacher has to see the child’s mouth. Is wearing a mask harmful for children.
In these cases, the shield can be used instead of a mask. But you should know that the shield can not protect the child against the virus as much as the mask.
If you decide to use a face shield, it should cover the entire face, go around the face and continue to the end of the chin.
Is it necessary to wear a mask when exercising or doing physical activities?
Children should not wear masks when exercising or doing activities such as running, jumping or playing, as it may interfere with their breathing. When planning your child’s activities, you need to keep in mind the essentials of keeping your child healthy :
- Keep his distance from others.
- Limit the number of children playing together.
- Provide facilities for hand washing and encourage this in children.
Concluding remarks.
In addition to maintaining social distance, washing hands and getting vaccinated is the key to protecting against coronation. If you are worried about masking your child, we suggest that you consult a pediatrician.
But as you read, masking is essential for protecting children over the age of 12 and is also important for younger people. The only contraindications for children in children under 2 years of age are people with physical disabilities and when exercising. Protect your health and that of your dear child by having these tips.
