Wearing Face Masks In Schools: Pros, Cons, And Implications
Despite the continuing COVID-19 epidemic, several governments are planning for children to return to school by the end of 2021, heightening the discussion over whether or not children would benefit from a mask requirement in schools. Even now, others argue that ubiquitous masking should be avoided. This article will go through the advantages of mask use, the recommended age to start mask use to Stay Safe, and the epidemiological research supporting the use of masks for children.
The positive effects of kids wearing masks
Many positive outcomes have been seen when kids wear masks to school. Several of the most significant advantages are listed below.
- Decrease the likelihood of contracting a respiratory infection
Coronaviruses are airborne viruses disseminated mainly by inhaling respiratory droplets released by infected persons when they cough, sneeze, sing, speak or breathe. These particles often called "aerosols," have a diameter of fewer than 10 micrometers.
When worn correctly, surgical masks may prevent the spread of infectious germs and viruses via the respiratory system by trapping droplets, splashes, sprays, and splatters. However, as with other types of masks, the amount of protection afforded by a cloth mask depends on factors such as the materials used, the number of layers of fabric, the size of the mask, etc.
- Second, keep loved ones safe from COVID-19
Wearing a mask while playing outside helps prevent the spread of germs and viruses expelled from a child's lungs (source control). Children and adults are urged to protect themselves by wearing masks even if they don't feel ill.
This is crucial since previous research has shown that both asymptomatic (never develops symptoms) and pre-symptomatic (haven't started developing symptoms) COVID-19-infected individuals may transfer the virus to others. More than half of all cases are thought to originate from either asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic people yet are nonetheless contagious.
- Third, safeguard the non-vaccinated
Certain people should not have the COVID-19 vaccine. The World Health Organization has determined that COVID-19 vaccinations are safe for all adults 18 and older, even those with preexisting illnesses such as autoimmune diseases. The WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) recommends the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination for individuals above 12.
Consequences of Regular Face Mask Use
In medicine, it is a universal truth that every treatment with an effect must also have some negative consequence. It is essentially doctors and scientists who work in operating rooms and other similar conditions that have complained about the physical repercussions of wearing face masks.
Most responders (72%), who used the show for 30 days, reported experiencing moderate headaches between once and four times. The discomfort had subsided on its own after 30 minutes of taking the face mask off. In very few instances was, pain medication (such as non-steroid analgesics) utilized.
Saliva, sweat, and moist vapor trapped between a face mask and the skin may also lead to perioral dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin around the mouth characterized by rashes and redness. Possible bacterial growth medium. It's possible to have irritating dermatitis by wearing a mask and having the rubber strings rub against your nose and ears, which may lead to annoying itching.
In Conclusion
It's important to remember that although most kids won't become very sick from a COVID-19 infection, they can develop severe problems and end up in the hospital. In addition, as there is currently no COVID-19 vaccination approved or authorized by the FDA for children under the age of 12, parents and guardians of children under 12 must consider allowing their children to wear a mask in school to protect themselves and others against COVID-19.
