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.
Reportr is now on Quento. Download the app or visit the Quento website for more articles and videos from Reportr and your favorite websites.
