Omicron has proven to be a more dangerous strain for kids. Since Omicron’s emergence and rapid spread, children’s cases have accounted for at least 20 to 25% of total COVID cases.

Whether parents isolate their young children or let them continue attending their childcare services, masks have become a key component in protecting very young and unvaccinated children against Covid-19, especially the highly transmissible and contagious to kids Omicron.

Medical masks for kids

For parents and caregivers, especially Early Childhood Education teachers and administrators who are looking to advise parents on which mask to put on their child while they are attending childcare, here are high filtration masks the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) parents and other caregivers can consider to wear for themselves and their children to prevent contracting COVID-19 air particles.

N95 mask for kids

The 95 in N95 means it can filter at least 95% of airborne particles when it is properly fitted to one’s face. The N95 mask is also strictly regulated by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). While there are other NIOSH-approved respirators or masks, those labeled surgical should only be used by healthcare professionals.
There are also fake N95s or those which haven’t been NIOSH-approved sold online so be cautious in where you get your respirators. To find out whether a mask is authentic or not, you can read CDC guidelines on how to spot a fake N95 here.

KF94 mask for kids

A good alternative to the N95, KF94 masks are produced by South Korea. These masks are strictly regulated by the South Korean government which limits the number of counterfeit masks on the market. It can be secured through ear loops.

KN95 mask for kids

Another substitute is the KN95 which is produced by Chinese manufacturers. However, the Chinese government has been remiss in strictly monitoring and regulating its production. As a result, there are more counterfeit KN95 being sold. To ensure you’re getting an authentic KN95 mask, it should have the manufacturer’s name and respirator standard number stamped on it.

Mask Fit Considerations

1. Make sure the mask has a snug fit on your child’s face.
The mask must cover the nose and mouth. It must have no gaps at the top, sides or chin.
2. It must have a nose wire.
The nose wire prevents any air from leaking out and also prevents unfiltered air from coming in through the gaps near the nose. If possible, try to find a mask that has a cushion to also provide added comfort for the child.
3. Double-masking or fitting two masks is recommended for better protection.
Consider putting a cloth mask on top of the respirator or surgical mask. The more layers that filter the air they breathe, the better the protection they’ll get and the less likely to breathe any COVID-19 airborne particles.

How Effective are the Masks for Young Children

Since the pandemic began, mechanical engineer Aaron Collins with a background in aerosol science, has been testing masks to see its efficiency in filtering airborne particles. He also has rigorously tested various masks and respirators specially designed for children from age 2 and above.

He has graciously shared his findings with everyone so that parents and caregivers, like childcare providers, will have an idea on how masks and respirators perform in protecting young children against COVID-19 airborne particles.
In the file he has also included measurements to see whether it can fit a child’s face snugly.