Initially, the guidance for Americans was that face masks were ineffective against COVID-19. However, this changed when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that the public wear protective face coverings to help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets from infected individuals. This shift led to a surge of creative DIY mask tutorials from parents, using items like bandanas, old clothing, and even socks. Yet, one particular idea sparked concern among many parents: the pacifier mask.
According to the CDC, two groups should be exempt from wearing cloth masks: infants under two years of age and individuals who have difficulty breathing or are unable to remove their masks independently. It’s crucial to remember the potential dangers of obstructing an infant’s airway during this pandemic. As CNN points out, babies have narrower airways, making them more susceptible to breathing difficulties if a mask is applied. Dr. Sam Thompson, a pediatrician at Riverside Health in Chicago, warns that as young children struggle for oxygen, the risk of accidental suffocation increases. “Children under two can’t easily remove masks, and their smaller airways mean they have less oxygen reserve, increasing their suffocation risk,” he explains. “They may not be able to communicate if a mask is causing them distress.”
In addition to choking hazards posed by the masks themselves, experts caution that excess saliva or vomit could get trapped in a mask, posing further choking risks.
Protective Measures for Parents
So, what can parents do to keep their babies safe from COVID-19? While options may be limited for infants, there are still protective measures parents can take. Since babies cannot wear masks, it’s vital to adhere to the CDC’s safety recommendations. This includes only allowing symptom-free family members around the baby (after thorough handwashing), maintaining social distance, regularly cleaning frequently-touched surfaces, and teaching older siblings not to touch the baby’s face.
If parents must leave the house with an infant and cannot maintain social distancing, physicians recommend draping a lightweight blanket, like a muslin cloth, over the car seat—never over the baby—to provide some protection while ensuring the baby can breathe comfortably.
Staying Safe at Home
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that the best way to protect your family from COVID-19 remains staying home and practicing physical distancing. “Keeping children at home is essential, especially for younger ones who might not understand why they shouldn’t interact closely with others,” states the AAP. “Sick children exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, or gastrointestinal issues should not leave home.”
Though children were once believed to be less susceptible to COVID-19, emerging evidence shows they can still contract and transmit the virus. Reports indicate a new condition called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), which may arise following COVID-19 infection. This syndrome, first identified in Europe and now reported over 250 times in the U.S., causes inflammation in various parts of the body, including vital organs. While most children recover from MIS-C, healthcare professionals caution that it can be severe.
Understanding the Guidelines
The recommendations and stay-at-home orders are not meant to confine Americans; rather, they are science-based strategies to promote health and safety. When reading headlines related to COVID-19, it’s crucial to fully understand the guidelines, including those regarding face masks. Dr. Thompson concludes, “Face masks are not designed for infants and toddlers. If marketed as such, it’s likely more about sales than safety.”
For further insights on this topic, consider checking out our other blog post here. For those interested in home insemination solutions, Make a Mom offers a range of products that could be beneficial. Additionally, for more information on fertility and related topics, the Cleveland Clinic provides excellent resources.
Conclusion
In summary, infants under two should not wear face masks due to the risk of suffocation and breathing difficulties. Parents should take precautions to protect their babies from COVID-19 by following CDC guidelines, maintaining social distance, and ensuring that sick individuals do not come into contact with the child.