To Mask or Not? Babies Edition

Is it OK to have a baby masked as a countermeasure against the new coronavirus?

As with common colds, many moms and dads may have wondered if their baby needs a mask while the new coronavirus is rampant (to wreak havoc). This time, we will tell you if your baby needs a mask and when to start wearing a mask.

When can a baby wear a mask?

When it comes to when a baby can wear a mask, it is said that he can wear a mask from around the age of two when he can "walk alone" and "breathe well".

For babies under 2 years

● It becomes difficult to breathe and there is a risk of suffocation.● Since oxygen in the blood is reduced, it is necessary to send a large amount of blood, which puts a strain on the heart.● When you vomit, the vomit may not be discharged and you may suffocate.● In summer or hot places, heat may not escape and heat stroke may occur.● Because it is difficult to understand the baby's facial expression and face color, it is difficult to notice any problems.There is a risk such as. Babies and newborns under the age of 2 are at risk of choking due to their narrow trachea and underdeveloped lungs. Babies who often spend their time on their backs (upward) are more likely to be unable to breathe when wearing a mask because their face and mask tend to stick together, blocking their nose and mouth.

Infection control and prevention methods for babies who cannot wear masks

Next, I will introduce the measures and prevention methods for infectious diseases of babies who cannot use masks.

Hand wash and hydration

You know that hand washing and gargling are effective in preventing various infectious diseases, not just the new coronavirus. After returning home and before meals, parents and children should get into the habit of washing their hands and gargling. For children who can't gargle yet, it's a good idea to rehydrate. Simply washing away the virus in your throat will help prevent infection. It seems that even babies under 2 years old can do this. Get in the habit of breastfeeding and hydrating after you go out.

Keep social distance

Staying away from the crowd and keeping a distance from people who are coughing can also help prevent infection. It is said that keeping a distance of 2 m or more from the other party has the effect of preventing droplet infection. The distance is more than 2m so that you cannot reach each other even if you extend your arms. It seems that it is more effective to prevent infection by keeping a distance so that you do not have to worry about droplet infection, rather than wearing a mask and approaching people. If you're traveling with your baby, try to avoid busy hours and maintain a social distance. I want to be careful when infectious diseases are prevalent, not just the new coronavirus.

Disinfect things around

As a baby, you want to put anything in your mouth, so bacteria and viruses can get into your body through things. Disinfecting anything your baby touches will help prevent infection. Wiping toys and tables, and washing stroller seats and baby slings in detail will also increase the chances of removing viruses and germs. You don't have to be too nervous, but I want to keep things around me as clean as possible. It can also be expected to be effective in preventing infectious diseases and diseases other than the new coronavirus.

Prevent adults from getting infected

It has been found that children are much more likely to be infected at home than they are outside. In other words, the most effective preventive measure against infection is to prevent adults from becoming infected. For babies under the age of two, the number of adults with whom they come into contact is limited. Let's make sure that adults close to you, such as parents and grandparents, can prevent infection and stay healthy. There are still many unclear points in newborn babies, and it is not known whether they are likely to become severe. However, people who come into contact during the newborn period will basically be limited to family members. Regarding this time, I would like to be more careful to prevent adults from bringing in the virus.

Take basic measures firmly and take measures against infection

It is dangerous to have a baby under the age of 2 wear a mask. First of all, taking basic measures firmly to prevent the parents themselves from becoming infected is the best way to prevent the spread of infection. Protect your family, your baby, and your precious life from your daily routine.