During the current pandemic, it is not difficult to see the image of children wearing a face mask when going to the doctor. However, there are also some parents who take their children to the clinic in a state of respiratory failure, but accidentally “adhere” to wearing a mask, making the difficulty of breathing worse.
That is, it is not always possible to wear a face masks, but we need to follow a specific method to help the baby wear a mask in the state of the Sars-Cov-2 virus spreading rapidly. Below is some useful information on this issue that Dr. Do Hong Phuong, General Department of Pediatrics – Hospital E shares with parents.
The use of a mask must also comply with the rules to be effective against COVID-19
The effects of face masks on children
Masks are a defensive barrier, helping children prevent the entry of harmful agents from the surrounding environment into the nose / mouth. At the same time, it also prevents droplets from being released when the baby coughs or sneezes.
Children should be cautioned by their parents to wear a face mask as a group with flu symptoms, chronic illnesses or immunodeficiency, children in clinics, hospitals or places where people gather. In particular, parents will probably wonder whether they should let their children wear medical masks or N95 masks.
N95 respirator has advantages over medical masks, with the ability to prevent poison and prevent fine dust particles with microscopic size in the air. However, it has a shell design that fits snugly around the nose and mouth and is quite stiff, so it makes children uncomfortable or even difficult to breathe when carrying.
The US CDC believes that the N95 respirator should only be used for medical personnel on duty, especially in the current seasonal shortage of epidemics. Besides, there is also no N95 mask designed specifically or recommended for young children, because of the risk of choking when worn. So, we can conclude that wearing conventional medical face masks correctly will suit children.
Masks help your baby limit the risk of being invaded by pathogens
How do children cooperate to wear masks?
First, we need to choose for your baby a mask with a small size and fit. Thanks to that, the child will not feel entangled and comfortable to wear. Then, parents should educate the child about the importance of wearing a mask, even when coughing, sneezing or talking. We can make it less boring to wear a mask by giving your child something with funny prints like dolls or superheroes.
Besides, if you see another child wearing the correct mask, do not forget to praise and set an example for the child to follow. Every time the baby cooperates, remember to praise and encourage with a few small gifts like stickers. In addition, parents themselves must also be a good example to always adhere to wearing a face mask properly.
When should children not wear a face mask?
It is extremely important that your child wear a mask at the right time and right. Especially in places where people gather and the current situation of COVID-19 is complicated. Wearing a mask in wrong way not only does not protect children, but also leads to many negative health effects.
Parents absolutely do not allow children to wear masks when they are fussy, excited, vomiting, drowsiness or respiratory failure. In case your child is sick, you must pay attention and evaluate regularly when wearing a mask, especially for young children to ensure the condition does not change badly. WHO also warns that wearing masks when not needed will also lead to a shortage of masks for those who really need them.
Children should not wear a face mask when suffering from respiratory distress as it can make the condition worse
Is wearing a mask the most effective measure against COVID-19 today?
In fact, the medical face mask is not a measure to prevent infectious diseases and COVID-19 for children. It is not even the most effective preventive measure. To achieve the maximum effectiveness of preventing infections, parents need to coordinate hand hygiene, reduce contact with infectious agents, clean the apartment clean and improve their child’s condition to help fight disease. In particular, parents must also note that even if they wear a face mask for their child, they still need to avoid contact with people with suspicious symptoms (fever, cough, sneezing …) within at least 2m. After using the mask, it must be removed or instructed on how to properly remove it and then throw it in the trash. Finally, have your baby sanitize hands with soap under clean running water to eliminate bacteria
