The World Health Organization has urged children aged 12 and above must wear masks to help tackle the spread of Covid-19. In a statement, both, WHO and UNICEF said that children aged 12 and above should particularly wear a mask when a one-metre distance from others cannot be guaranteed and there is widespread transmission in the area.
The potential impact on learning and psycho-social development, and the interactions the child has with people at high risk of developing serious illness, should also play a role. Studies suggest older children potentially play a more active role in transmission of the new coronavirus than younger children, according to both WHO and UNICEF.
WHO highly recommends fabric masks. A statement on their site, they said, “If there is widespread community transmission, and especially in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained, governments should encourage the general public to wear a fabric mask. WHO also provides details on the composition of a fabric mask and how to safely wear one.”
Fabric masks have three layers – an outer, inner, and middle layer. The inner layer which comes in direct contact with your face should be a hydrophilic layer, one that will absorb droplets with ease, while the outer layer must be a hydrophobic material, a fabric that can repel droplets.
