More and more people are wearing face masks due to the CDC’s recent recommendation that everyone wear a face mask in public to help stem the spread of the Coronavirus by asymptomatic carriers. The part that hasn’t been as well-publicized, however, is that that the CDC specifically warns against using face masks on babies and children under age 2. From their statement:
Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
There are several reasons for this:
- Young children are likely to try to remove their masks or adjust it when uncomfortable, increasing the frequency of touching their face which is a primary mode of virus transmission. It actually increases their risk of infection.
- Airways are smaller and masks make it more difficult to breathe. This can lead to CO2 buildup and/or suffocation.
- If infants are having trouble breathing due to the mask, they do not have the dexterity to remove it.
In addition, there are no N-95 masks that are actually approved for use on babies or small children. And remember, masks in public are meant to prevent unintentional transmission, not infection. While it’s commendable that you don’t want your baby or young child to accidentally transmit the virus to others, a mask on them offers little protection from contracting it. In fact, it poses an even greater risk. It’s preferable to keep them home altogether. While admittedly it’s not easy, it’s for the best.
Stay safe!
