In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans were initially advised that face masks did not offer significant protection. However, soon after, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shifted its stance, recommending the use of masks to help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets. This led to an upsurge in creative DIY mask tutorials, as parents sought to craft protective gear from items like bandanas and old shirts. Unfortunately, one particular DIY idea sparked concern among many parents: the pacifier face mask.
The CDC has clearly stated that certain individuals should not wear cloth face masks, including infants under the age of two and those who struggle with breathing or cannot remove the mask on their own. The rationale here is simple yet critical: obstructing an infant’s nose or mouth can lead to dangerous consequences. Infants have narrower airways, making them more vulnerable to breathing difficulties when wearing a mask. As Dr. Samuel Green, a pediatrician at Oakwood Heights Medical Center, points out, the effort required for infants to breathe can lead to stress on their lungs, potentially resulting in suffocation.
“The smaller airways of children under two make them particularly susceptible to suffocation risks associated with face masks,” Dr. Green explains. “They lack the ability to communicate distress, which heightens their vulnerability.” Additionally, the very fabric of a mask can pose choking hazards, particularly if it traps spit-up or vomit.
So, what can parents do to safeguard their infants from COVID-19? While mask-wearing is not an option, there are precautions that can be taken. It’s essential to adhere to CDC guidelines: limit exposure to symptom-free family members, practice regular hand-washing, maintain social distancing, and sanitize frequently touched surfaces. Furthermore, instruct older siblings not to touch the baby’s face.
If you must take your infant out and cannot maintain social distance, experts recommend draping a lightweight blanket, such as a muslin cloth, over the car seat—not the baby—during potential exposure. This method can provide some protection while allowing for free airflow.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stresses that the best way to protect your family during these times is still to stay home and practice physical distancing. “Especially for younger children who may not understand the need to avoid close contact, keeping them at home is advisable,” the AAP advises. Symptoms such as fever, cough, or runny nose in children should warrant staying home.
Recent studies have revealed that while children generally experience milder symptoms of COVID-19, they are still capable of spreading the virus. Moreover, a concerning new illness—multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)—has emerged among those who have had prior COVID-19 infections. This syndrome can cause severe inflammation in various organs and, while most children recover, it can lead to serious health complications.
In conclusion, it is vital for parents to stay informed about the risks associated with face masks for young children and to take necessary precautions to protect their infants. For more information on healthy living during the pandemic, make sure to check out our other blog post here. For stylish baby gear that prioritizes safety, visit this resource. And for those interested in pregnancy assistance, the guide provided by WebMD is an excellent resource.