Kids should wear a mask if your community says so, but some need more serious masks and others, none.
There has been much debate about children and masks in relation to the pandemic. Do they need them, do the masks work, and how old should people be to wear one? On August 21 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) put together a list of questions and answers on their website that address both parents’ and politicians’ needs to know what is best. Here are 5 takeaways to use for best practice.
Yes, they should wear a mask over 5 years old.
Generally speaking, if your community is advising you wear a mask in public, children aged 5 and older should also put one on, the WHO says. The organization is aware however, that different places have different needs. If there is widespread transmission of the virus in your area, put one on. Children under the age of 5 may have difficulty keeping a mask on and wearing it properly and consistently. If a younger child is wearing a mask, the WHO advises that they always be within an adult’s line of sight, in order to make sure the child is wearing the mask safely. (Babies should never wear masks).
Children who are 12 and older should wear a mask as adults do, and especially in situations where they cannot stay 6 feet or 2 meters away from others at all times.
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Kids with medical conditions need a medical mask.
The WHO advises that children with medical conditions such as cancer or cystic fibrosis should have their family consult with their doctor about wearing a mask. It should be a medical mask, and not simply a regular fabric or disposable one.
Kids in good health can wear a non-medical mask, however.
They should be taught how to wear it safely.
Just as adults are, kids should be taught how to wear a mask safely. This involves cleaning their hands for at least 20 seconds with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or 40 seconds with soap and water prior to putting one one. The mask needs to be the right size, and to cover the nose, mouth, and chin. It should also be stored in a bag or container separate from other belongings, and shouldn’t be shared with anyone.
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If they are sick, kids should wear a mask at home.
This might sound excessive but it is actually of vital importance if someone in your house is sick with COVID-19. If your kid has symptoms that seem like the coronavirus, they need to wear their mask at all times, or as long as they can stand it, the WHO states. Symptomatic children should be placed in isolation, (i.e. stay in their bedroom). Any household members who come in contact with them should also wear a mask.
Kids shouldn’t wear a mask playing sports.
Pretty much the only time that children should avoid wearing a mask for certain is when they are physically active. If your child is playing sports, no mask should be worn. A mask shouldn’t be worn when they are running and jumping. This being said, children should not be playing organized sports with others, or running around together, if there is a widespread transmission of the coronavirus in your community.
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