Social media has been flooded with hopeful records, whether photos or videos, of people celebrating receiving the long-awaited dose of Covid-19 vaccine.

However, we know that the immunization process is still going on for a long time, which leads us to the reality of continuing firm with safety protocols, such as the use of alcohol gel and face masks, among other precautions.

And speaking of them, face masks have been a great ally to prevent the transmission of the virus, as well as its variants, and this protection extends to children.

With models such as children's surgical masks, fabric masks and Filtering Face Masks (PFF2), it is normal to have doubts about which is the best for our little ones, especially with the return of classroom classes in schools.

children's surgical mask

The Children's Surgical Mask is indicated for use from the age of two, stressing that its model must be child-friendly, with a correct fit on the child's face, with coverage of the nose and mouth, with no spaces on the sides.

Usually made with a triple layer of protection, it also has a nose clip (which follows the curvature of the child's nose), allowing a more efficient grip on your face.

It can be used for up to 4 hours and must be discarded afterwards.

fabric mask

The fabric mask is also suitable for children, from 2 years old, as long as they do not have motor difficulties that can increase the risk of suffocation.

In order to be more efficient, it is recommended that the fabric mask be made with three layers of protection, the first (inner layer) being made of cotton to avoid possible allergic skin reactions.

They can be used in a period of 2 to 4 hours and their cleaning consists of washing with soap and water, which can be done in the washing machine, and finalizing this cleaning process, ironing the masks with a hot iron.

Despite being made of fabric, it is necessary to pay attention to the level of wear, whether on the elastics or on the fabric itself, and should be discarded and replaced with a new one .

Filtering Face Mask (PFF2)

Despite being one of the best masks found on the market, the Filtering Face Mask (PFF2) is not recommended for children under six years old .

It is suitable for pre-teens, teenagers and adults.

Its shape is of a shell and it is important to verify that it has the approval certificate for use, according to your country.

Rubber bands should also be attached to the back of the head or the top of the head.

The PFF2 can be used for a period of up to 8 hours, with due care when putting it on or taking it off so that there is no risk of contamination, whether inside or outside.

And as for its cleaning, the process is very simple: just leave it in an airy place for at least 3 days, and it can be used up to 5 times, respecting these intervals.

In short, specialists are unanimous in stating that the children's surgical mask is the most suitable, due to its efficiency in offering protection of up to 90% and the fact that it has a filtering layer.

However, this result is only achieved if the mask is well adapted to the child's face.

And for this adaptation to the face to be adequate, it is worth tying the elastics, for example.

A good conversation is crucial!

We know that wearing a mask is uncomfortable and this discomfort is no different for our little ones.

Therefore, having an enlightening conversation, showing that this feeling will be very different than being in an environment in which the use of a mask covering nose and mouth is not mandatory, but it is a very important act for the safety of them and the people who live with them.

And we stay here, in the crowd, with great faith that this pandemic is each day closer to ending!