COVID-19 and masks: Tips for families
01 September 2021 Masks help stop the COVID-19 virus from spreading, but that doesn’t make them easy to introduce to children, as many parents have been discovering. The practice of wearing a mask to reduce the transmission of germs has a long history in some countries. But for many families, 2020 will be remembered as the first time putting on a…, Why wear a mask or face covering?, One of the main ways that COVID-19 spreads is through respiratory droplets that people expel when they talk, sing, cough or sneeze. While research is ongoing, we now know that the virus can be spread by people not showing symptoms, meaning some people can be contagious and not even realize it. That is one of the reasons why physical distancing is…, What type of mask should I get for my family? , Non-medical masks (also called fabric masks or face coverings): If you and your family live in a place where COVID-19 is widespread and don’t have any COVID-19 symptoms, then non-medical masks are recommended. Medical masks: Medical masks are in short supply globally because of the pandemic. They are recommended if you or a family member is at a…, What type of fabric mask is best?, Fabric masks or face coverings come in a wide variety of materials and can be something you make at home or buy in a store. While research into the use of fabric masks is ongoing, their effectiveness depends on the types of fabric used and the number of layers. The World Health Organization recommends three layers made up of: an inner layer of…, What about face shields?, Face shields help provide eye protection, but are not the same as masks when it comes to protection from respiratory droplets. However, for those who have difficulties wearing a non-medical mask (people with cognitive, respiratory, or hearing impairments, for example), face shields can be considered as an alternative. If you choose to use one,…, Can wearing a mask make me sick?, While wearing a mask can be uncomfortable sometimes, it does not lead to CO2 intoxication nor oxygen deficiency. If you are wearing a medical mask, be sure it fits correctly and that it is tight enough to allow you to breathe normally. Do not re-use a disposable mask and always change it as soon as it gets damp. When wearing a fabric mask, make…, When should my family wear a mask?, Check to see if your local authorities require you to wear masks in certain settings and for any age-specific recommendations where you live. Whether your children should wear a mask depends on a number of factors, including their age and ability to safely and appropriately use a mask. > Jump to Is it safe for children to wear masks If COVID-…, When shouldn’t you wear a mask?, Masks should not be worn by anyone who is unable to remove the mask without help, including infants and young children, or anyone having difficulty breathing. If you or a family member has a health condition or disability that makes it difficult to wear a mask, check with your doctor for advice on what is best for you. When exercising, choose a…, How to clean a fabric mask, Wash fabric masks using soap or detergent, preferably in hot water (at least 60 degrees Celsius) at least once a day. If machine washing, use the warmest appropriate setting for the type of fabric. If handwashing, use hot, soapy water. After washing, the mask should be dried completely before being worn again. Store masks in a clean bag., Is it safe for children to wear masks?, Based on an expert review of COVID-19 and transmission in children, and other factors such as children's psychosocial needs and developmental milestones, WHO and UNICEF advise the following: Ages 0-5 UNICEF and WHO recommend that children aged 5 years and under should not be required to wear masks. This is based on child safety and recognizes…, How should children wear masks?, Children should follow the same principles as adults for wearing masks: Children should clean their hands for at least 20 seconds if using an alcohol-based hand rub, or at least 40 seconds if using soap and water, before putting on the mask Make sure the mask is the right size to cover the nose, mouth, and chin Children should be taught how to…, What should I look for when getting a mask for my children? , Many masks are designed for adults and won’t fit children properly. If you are buying masks, choose one that is appropriately sized for your child. Whether you are buying or making masks for your children, check that they cover their mouth, nose and chin, and don’t have any gaps on the sides or block their vision. Make sure they can breathe…, Will wearing a mask protect my child at school?, The use of masks by children and adolescents in schools should only be considered as one part of a strategy to limit the spread of COVID-19. For information on age-specific recommendations for mask wearing, please see ‘ Is it safe for my child to wear a mask? '. WHO recommends several measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools and to…, How to wear a mask correctly , COVID-19 how to wear a mask correctly Correctly wearing, removing and caring for a mask is important to protect your health and those around you. Practice following this checklist with your family to turn it into a routine. When putting on a mask Always start by washing your hands with soap and water before putting on a mask. Make sure the mask…, Talking to your children about masks, The COVID-19 pandemic has upset family life around the world causing stress, anxiety and sadness. Understandably masks may add to such feelings for many children, especially in places where they are not used to wearing masks. For younger children in particular, mask wearing can be confusing and upsetting. If your family hasn’t worn masks before,…
