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.

Indian Pediatrics
|January 6, 2024
PubMed

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.

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