In addition to getting a vaccine, wearing a mask is often cited as the best way to protect against contracting COVID-19. The CDC advises everyone ages 2 and older to wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public areas of substantial or high community transmission – including schools – regardless of vaccination status. While some school districts in the state, including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, require students and staff to wear masks, a few have made them optional.
The public debate about the need for masks on children continues, with some parents citing potential health risks and learning barriers that outweigh the benefits. Others consider masking as one way to keep kids safe while in school.
Data show that the majority of children are far less likely to experience symptoms or serious complications from COVID-19 than adults, but those with underlying health conditions may be at increased risk for severe illness. COVID-19 in children can lead to a potentially dangerous complication called multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). This condition can affect the heart, lungs and kidneys. An infection can also lead to long COVID in some children. Recent studies also indicate that children are capable of spreading the infection, but when masks are worn correctly, they create a barrier that reduces respiratory emissions that play a key role in the spread of COVID-19. As of Thursday, 2.3% of current COVID-related hospitalizations in North Carolina are pediatric patients, according to state health officials.
Despite the known health benefits of face coverings, a December 2020 study published in Sage Journals suggested that masks could impact social and learning skills among children. Analyzing facial expressions is a useful cue to understand the emotions of others, which is a skill that develops in early childhood, …..
Story continues at: Can kids survive all?
