Asked and Answered – What type of mask should my child wear at school?

NOTE:  The following information was published September 2, 2020. For current COVID-19 information, visit LVHN.org/COVID-19.

From repurposed bandanas to store bought face masks, face coverings vary widely. The most important aspects concerning effectiveness of a mask are fit and fabric.

• Fit – Your child’s mask should fit snugly against her or his face and cover the nose and mouth. A snug fit keeps the mask from slipping and helps reduce the temptation to touch the mask throughout the day. A proper fit also means less of your child’s respiratory droplets will enter the air. This is important to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Since face shields do not fit snugly against the face, they should always be worn with a mask.

• Fabric ­­­– Mask fabric should be at least two-ply and made of a breathable fabric that is not sheer. Masks should not be vented because the vent does not filter exhaled air and allows germs to travel into the air that others breathe.

Tip: Remember – wearing a mask is only one piece of the puzzle. Keep your child home from school when feeling sick, encourage him or her to practice frequent hand washing and remind your child to keep distanced from others when possible.

About the Author
Scott Rice, MD's career in medicine began in 1991, when he graduated with his Medical Degree from  Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia Pa. After medical school, he completed his residency at Tripler Army Medical Center, Pediatrics. He is board-certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics. Dr. Rice is currently practicing at LVPG Pediatrics–Fogelsville.

For more tips and information on how to keep your children safe as they head back to school, visit LVHN.org/schoolpartners.