DOH Discourages Face Masks for Children Below 2 Years Old

The wearing of face masks is discouraged for children younger than 2 years old, the Department of Health said Tuesday, citing the possible choking hazard.

Only children aged 2 and older are recommended to wear face masks when there is a need to go out of their homes for medical reasons, Department of Health spokesperson Usec. Maria Rosario Vergeire said.

For children younger than 2, Vergeire said a face shield would do if there is a need to go outdoors.

"May panganib na ma-choke o ma-strangulate ang bata pag nagsusuot ng face mask kaya hindi na muna natin sila pinagsusuot if they are younger than 2 years old," she said during a Palace press briefing.

Wearing of face masks is also not recommended for the following:

1. If the child has difficulty breathing when wearing it

2. Children with cognitive or respiratory impairment

3. If the mask is a possible choking or strangulation hazard

4. If wearing a mask causes the child to touch their face more frequently

Children are prohibited from going outdoors as the Philippines fights the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus Delta variant.