COVID-19: At which age should children start wearing a mask in the UAE?

Paediatricians offer best practices to introduce mask-wearing early to combat coronavirus

Last updated: July 01, 2020 | 12:55

Huda Tabrez, Living in UAE Editor

3 MIN READ

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As per the directives by UAE authorities, children above the age of six should wear a mask when outdoors.

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Children have been allowed to enter malls and restaurants.

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Read about the announcement made on June 17 here: gulfnews.com/1.1592412137744

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You can start training children at an earlier age to wear masks when outdoors.

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Dr Brindha Balasubramanian, Specialist pediatrician, Prime Hospital, said that children over the age of two can be encouraged to wear mask outdoors.

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Read about the announcement here: https://gulfnews.com/1.1596516572156

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Talk to children about the virus and how to stay safe.

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This is a new experience for children as well.

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Encourage children to get involved in making paper or cloth masks as fun activities.

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Follow best practices when it comes to social interactions and avoiding big gatherings.

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If you experience any symptoms, immediately get medical advice.

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Dr Sridhar Kalyanasundaram, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Zulekha Hospital, also advised parents to introduce masks early.

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For children under two, it may be a choking hazard, but for those older, masks can be introduced gently.

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Children also have a sense of conformity to social norms, which can be encouraged for mask wearing.

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Avoid going outdoors as much as possible.

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Find the right outdoor activity

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