Experts break down what parents need to know amid the Delta variant: —Children do not need N95, KN95 masks — Face masks can be re-worn by kids — A sun test can help check the quality of your child's face mask More tips:
1. Children do not need N95, KN95 masks.
Both Malley and Bartlett also pointed out N95 and KN95 masks do not work if they do not fit properly, which is why medical staff who wear them undergo intense fitting procedures to make sure they are secure."Absolutely an N95 that has been fitted to you provides the most protection. It is true in a healthcare setting but not relevant to kids and schools," said Bartlett.
"Everybody recognizes that [mask wearing] is an inconvenience for kids, so one way to help the process is to let the child choose," he said."Go online or go to the store and have the child select the mask they’re going to wear."In order for a mask to be effective, it needs to fit over the nose and cover under the chin, according to Malley.
"There is not a risk to kids of CO2 [carbon dioxide] retention or not getting enough oxygen," she said."There is no medical concern to having your face covered with a mask like this."