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Prevalence and Predictors of Effective Face Mask Usage Among Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Diptirekha Satapathy1, Thirunavukkarasu Arun Babu2, Sandhya Bommidi1
1Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh.
Insights
A study found that 67% of children used face masks, but only 25% used them correctly. Factors like age and socioeconomic status influenced usage, highlighting the need for targeted health interventions to improve mask-wearing practices.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Face mask usage is a key non-pharmaceutical intervention for infectious disease control.
- Understanding factors influencing pediatric mask use is crucial for public health strategies.
- Previous research has not comprehensively evaluated pediatric face mask usage and associated determinants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of face mask usage among children aged 1 to 14 years.
- To identify factors associated with face mask usage and correct usage in children.
- To inform targeted interventions for improving pediatric face mask compliance.
Main Methods:
- Observational study involving 320 children aged 1 to 14 years.
- Data collection on face mask usage patterns and demographic/socioeconomic factors.
- Statistical analysis to identify significant associations with mask usage.
Main Results:
- 67% of children reported using face masks.
- Only 25% of children demonstrated correct face mask usage.
- Significant associations found with age, school type, socioeconomic status, maternal education, allergic disease history, parental COVID vaccination status, and sibling presence.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric face mask usage is prevalent but correct usage is low.
- Multiple demographic, socioeconomic, and familial factors influence children's mask-wearing behavior.
- Targeted, age-appropriate health education programs are recommended to enhance proper mask utilization in children.
Abstract:
A total of 320 children, aged 1 to 14 years were observed to ascertain the prevalence of face mask usage and the factors affecting the same. 67% of children used face masks, but only 25% of them used them correctly. Factors such as age, type of school, socioeconomic status, maternal education, history of allergic diseases, COVID vaccination status of the parents, and having a sibling were significantly associated with the use of face masks. Age-appropriate targeted health interventions should be implemented to improve proper mask usage.
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