The CDC Recommends Your Child Wears A Mask In Public

Locally in our community, Crossroads Today has reported that Wharton County now has four new reports of positive COVID 19 and of these four new cases, two are children under the age of 18. 

Our hearts are with these children and their families.

It's harrowing especially as a parent to hear of children contracting this virus. But, be assured, the Center for Disease Control continues to suggest that adults over 18 still make up the most of the known cases of COVID-19 and even though the symptoms of COVID-19 are similar for adults and children, children have continued to show milder symptoms. 

The CDC recommends taking steps to help protect your children against COVID-19 by frequent hand washing, disinfecting high touch areas daily and laundering items that include washable toys using the warmest setting and making sure items are dried completely. Social distancing is also paramount in helping to control the spread by limiting time with children and older adults as well with people with medical conditions. The CDC recommends postponing trips and visits to see older members of the community, including family members.

These are things you likely have already heard as a parent.

Here is something you might not be aware of, but need to know, especially if you are a parent who has to take their children in public or into high traffic areas like daycare...

The CDC is recommending that CHILDREN 2 AND OLDER WEAR A CLOTH FACE COVERING IN PUBLIC.

"Children 2 years and older should wear a cloth face covering their nose and mouth when in the community setting. This is an additional public health measure people should take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in addition to (not instead of) social distancing, frequent hand cleaning and other everyday preventive actions. A cloth face covering is not intended to protect the wearer, but may prevent the spread of virus from the wearer to others. This would be especially important in the event that someone is infected but does not have symptoms. Medical masks and N-95 respirators are still reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance."

There are several resources in our community for free masks, many of which are made and distributed through nonprofits and individuals on Facebook and social media links. Another resource for masks for children might be through calling your pediatrician or health care provider and local pharmacy.

If you can't find a mask, Parents.com recommends; a scarf, bandanna, handkerchief or other fabric in an effort to be as safe as your child can be.

Here is a great video on how to wear a surgical mask properly from CHP Department of Health