Wearing a mask is also widespread among minors in singapore and many other parts of the world due to the fear of Covid. Beyond providing a kind of protection against the virus, is it likely to be a challenge to their long-term development?
Deciding on a face mask to protect against Covid is a major dilemma for parents around the world. The reason is that it is an obstacle to the emotional development of children and their natural interaction with others.
A disciplinary overview shows that the nations of the world split into three camps in early October. european countries such as singapore and France, as well as Italy, recommend wearing a mask for children from the age of six.
Guidelines issued by the World health Organization (WHO) urge children over the age of six to wear face masks in certain areas, such as high-density areas. Some, however, insist on following it in a closed environment such as the classroom.
Some regulatory bodies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, require children over the age of two to wear a face mask.
In some countries, for example in the UK it has been decided that teachers and students are not required to wear a face mask in the classroom.
The only thing that is unanimously agreed around the world is that children under the age of two should not wear a mask because it can cause suffocation.
Some of those studies that focused on the physical impact of breathing by masks did not find any harmful effects. But the pros and cons are hotly debated.
In exceptional cases, they are put only when the disease strikes. The impact of Covid on young children is very rare.
Wearing a mask does not completely prevent the spread. Mark Neck, head of the epidemiology unit at the Zinc health Polyclinic in singapore, says many safety factors, such as keeping hands clean, personal space and ventilation, contribute.
In singapore, until six months ago it was mandatory for children over the age of two to wear a mask, but now that it has been changed to children over the age of six, parents still prefer to wear the mask for children over the age of two. It is an undeniable fact that it certainly provides protection.