Re: Esposito et al.: To mask or not to mask children to overcome COVID-19

Measures to maintain regular operations and prevent outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 in childcare facilities or schools under pandemic conditions and co-circulation of other respiratory pathogens

“… A general recommendation for teaching or care personnel to wear a daily mask during an outbreak should always be the most important step before a complete closure of a day-care centre or school. Irrespective of this, the rules of compulsory masks for older children and adolescents [ 75 ], [ 79 ], [ 80 ], [ 81 ], [ 82 ], [ 83 ], [ 84 ] as well as for teaching and care personnel in defined situations are part of preventive infection protection (see Table 1 (Tab. 1) and Table 2 (Tab.…”

SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Should Children Wear Masks?

“…Therefore, its use is not recommended in children under two years old. [2][3][4] In this age group, other preventive measures such as social distancing, frequent hand washing and surface disinfection should be prioritized. [1][2][3] For older children, the use of masks, when advised, should be preceded by a careful explanation on how to properly wear and take them off.…”

“…[2][3][4] In this age group, other preventive measures such as social distancing, frequent hand washing and surface disinfection should be prioritized. [1][2][3] For older children, the use of masks, when advised, should be preceded by a careful explanation on how to properly wear and take them off. [2][3][4] Touching the mask should be discouraged as it increases the risk of infection.…”

“…[1][2][3] For older children, the use of masks, when advised, should be preceded by a careful explanation on how to properly wear and take them off. [2][3][4] Touching the mask should be discouraged as it increases the risk of infection. [1][2][3][4] Parents and teachers are key players in this educational process and should be provided with age-appropriate strategies to overcome common difficulties such as poor acceptance and fear.…”

“…[2][3][4] Touching the mask should be discouraged as it increases the risk of infection. [1][2][3][4] Parents and teachers are key players in this educational process and should be provided with age-appropriate strategies to overcome common difficulties such as poor acceptance and fear. [2][3][4] Moreover, children with cognitive impairments and behavioural disorders may have more difficulty tolerating a face covering and those with hearing impairments may need modified masks, for instance with clear panels in the front.…”