Rules for wearing masks to prevent respiratory diseases for children

Parents should instruct their children to wash their hands and not touch the mask to avoid virus and bacteria infection and prevent respiratory diseases.

Children often have weak immune systems and are susceptible to respiratory diseases. Associate Professor Nguyen Thi Yen, Department of Pediatrics, Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi , recommends that parents pay attention to measures to prevent infection in children. The simplest of which is to wear a mask when going to crowded places.

Children are often hyperactive, wearing masks makes them feel entangled and uncomfortable. Therefore, children should be encouraged to wear masks according to their age and physical characteristics.

Children aged 5 and above have quite good awareness, can understand what their parents say and express their own opinions. At this age, parents should encourage and persuade their children to wear masks when going out to protect their respiratory system. Children under 5 years old (especially under 2 years old) are not required to wear masks except in cases of traveling through epidemic areas or close contact with people with respiratory diseases.

Children wearing masks in crowded places helps prevent respiratory diseases. Photo: Freepik — Children wearing masks in crowded places helps prevent respiratory diseases. Photo: *Freepik*

Additionally, wearing masks is not required for children with developmental delays, disabilities, or other special health problems, cognitive disorders, or respiratory failure. Children playing sports also do not need to wear masks, even when outdoors, Dr. Yen said.

A face mask can be used as an alternative to a face mask, but it must be worn completely covering the face, around the sides of the face and pulled down below the chin. Care must be taken when wearing the mask to avoid hitting the face or eyes.

Parents should guide their children on how to wear masks properly so that they can wear them by themselves when not accompanied by an adult. The mask must fit snugly on the face, covering the nose and pulling down to the chin, covering most of the nose and mouth but still allowing easy breathing, without causing earache or skin irritation. Avoid reusing medical masks or activated carbon masks many times, do not share with others.

Parents should teach children not to touch the mask because this action can cause infection with viruses and other pathogens. Avoid putting the mask in pockets, shirts, backpacks, or bags because it can make them dirty and contaminated with harmful bacteria when worn. Wash hands with soap or disinfectant before and after using the mask, returning home from outside, and before and after each toilet visit.

Strengthen your child's immunity by giving them recommended vaccines and supplementing them with balanced nutrition. Gargle with salt water and keep your throat warm, especially when traveling to cold weather areas, to protect your child's respiratory system.

Khue Lam

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