Just six hours after the FDA approved COVID-19 vaccines for children under 12, my sister-in-law messaged our family group chat: “CVS is scheduling appointments.” In less than fifteen minutes, my kids were prepped and ready to get vaccinated. I couldn’t help but cry when they received their shots; I’d been looking forward to this moment since the pandemic began. Finally, my kids were significantly less at risk for severe illness or death from COVID-19. However, just because they are now vaccinated doesn’t mean we’ll be ditching masks anytime soon. With winter approaching, we’re still masking up. I just ordered more masks from Amazon.
Reason 1: Understanding COVID Vaccines
COVID vaccines were designed to prevent severe illness and death, not necessarily to stop transmission. I’m grateful my vaccinated children are much safer, but we still lack comprehensive data on the risk of contracting MIS-C (multi-system inflammatory syndrome) in vaccinated kids. While I believe that risk is low, it isn’t zero. What if my children catch COVID and unknowingly pass it to someone vulnerable? That’s just not okay. Furthermore, vaccine effectiveness can wane over time; one study indicated that the Pfizer vaccine was about 50% effective at preventing infection 19 weeks after the second shot. Therefore, even with high vaccination rates, there remains a chance (up to 10%) of infection. Since some areas still have low vaccination rates and people aren’t wearing masks, I’d rather be safe than sorry.
Reason 2: Masks Offer Broader Protection
Masks aren’t just about COVID; they also help mitigate the spread of other illnesses. When people breathe, they release a range of viruses, including those that cause the common cold and flu. I certainly don’t want to inhale anyone’s germs. If my kids and I wear masks, we can reduce our chances of catching not just COVID but also the flu and colds. Trust me, I’d prefer to avoid the sick timeline that typically goes: Day 1: Child #1 gets sick. Day 3: Child #2 follows suit. Day 5: Parents get sick. Day 6: Kids are back to their usual chaos while parents languish. Wearing masks can help prevent that cycle, so my kids will be winter warriors in their cute masks.
Reason 3: Protecting Others
I genuinely care about community health. If my kids are carrying germs, their masks can help prevent them from spreading illness to others. This isn’t a new concept—many cultures have embraced mask-wearing long before COVID.
But I’m Not Overly Obsessive
If my kids are outdoors, they won’t be wearing masks; sunlight helps reduce virus transmission. In smaller family gatherings, I also don’t anticipate them masking. However, when we’re out in public spaces, you can bet we’ll be masked up appropriately. I’ve never been the parent to take my kids to crowded indoor places during cold and flu season anyway, and I’ve always been cautious about germs. COVID has just pushed my cautiousness to a new level.
For now, we’ll keep wearing masks until the pandemic is truly under control, so don’t expect to see my kids without them for a while.
This article was originally published on November 24, 2021.
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Summary:
In light of the recent COVID-19 vaccine approval for children under 12, one parent reflects on their decision to continue masking. They emphasize that while the vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, it does not eliminate the possibility of infection or transmission. Masks not only protect against COVID but also other common illnesses, and wearing them can help safeguard the community. The parent explains their cautious approach, noting that masks will remain a part of their family’s winter routine until the pandemic is fully under control.