In the context of the pandemic caused by the new coronavirus, wearing cloth masks is one of the methods of protection against infection. In addition, this accessory prevents the spread of the virus by an already infected person. But is this type of protection always effective and, most importantly, safe? As it turned out – no. For young children, a medical mask can be life-threatening.
When a mask can harm a child
WHO gave clear explanations on how to wear a protective disposable mask correctly and for how long [1]. After 2 hours of wearing, the accessory must be changed, since it itself becomes a breeding ground for pathogens and does more harm than good. But now it’s not even about that.
Japanese pediatricians have warned the public that masks can be dangerous for children under 2 years of age. [2]. The fact is that the airways in babies are narrower than in adults. As a result, any obstruction, including in the form of a medical bandage, can increase the load on the lungs and cause difficulty in breathing, and in some cases even cause suffocation. The accessory is especially dangerous if the baby starts vomiting.
Wearing protective bandages is considered safe at the age when the child can already independently remove the accessory if necessary, if it makes breathing difficult. Babies under 2 years old cannot do this, so they have a very high risk of suffocation. [3].
How to protect children under 2 years old
Toddlers are less at risk of contracting coronavirus, and cases of severe illness in patients from this group are rare [4]. To avoid infection, it is important for children to follow the same rules as adults, but wearing masks under the age of 2 years should be abandoned. But in this case, parents should monitor the observance of social distance between the child and other people, as well as regularly disinfect everything that the baby touches.
Do not forget that rinsing the nasal passages with saline or seawater-based products cleans the nasal passages of viruses, bacteria and dust. Therefore, during a pandemic, this preventive measure is justified after visiting public places and contact with people.
For children over 2 years of age and adults, wearing masks is safe, provided that WHO recommendations are followed.
- Sources of
- ↑ World Health Organization. When and how should a mask be worn?
- ↑ Jack Guy and Yoko Wakatsuki, CNN, 2020. – Masks are too dangerous for children under two, Japanese experts warn.
- ↑ UC Davis Health. – Masks pose dangers for babies, toddlers.
- ↑ World Health Organization. – Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Frequently Asked Questions.