The world as we once knew it may have changed, but safe sleep guidelines have not. Remember, infants should be placed alone, on their back, in an empty crib in a non-smoking home. Pacifiers have been shown to have a protective effect on the incidence of SIDS, but ONLY the pacifier with no attachments like bands or animals, AND ESPECIALLY NOT MASKS.
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The CDC Guidelines DO NOT recommend face masks for infants under 2 Years of age.
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Why Shouldn’t My Infant Use a Mask?
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Baby’s airways are smaller, so breathing through a mask is even harder on them.
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Using a mask on an infant may increase the risk of suffocation. Masks are harder to breathe through. A snug fit will give them less access to air, and a loose fit will not provide much protection.
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If they are having a hard time breathing, infants are unable to take the mask off themselves and could suffocate.
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Older infants or young toddlers are not likely to keep the mask on and will likely try to remove it, as well as touch their face more.
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There are no N95 masks approved for young children.
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How Can I Protect My Infant?
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Limit exposure and avoid unnecessary public contact.
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If going out is essential, cover the infant carrier (NOT THE INFANT) with a blanket, which helps protect the baby, but still gives them the ability to breathe comfortably. Do not leave the blanket on the carrier in the car or at any time when the baby and carrier are not in direct view.
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Keep hands clean. Frequent hand washing with soap and water for 20 seconds is optimal, but hand sanitizer, with at least 60% alcohol is the next best substitute.
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Clean frequently-touched surfaces such as doorknobs, handles, light switches and electronics often.
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Teach older children to avoid touching their faces.
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If a parent cannot leave the young infant at home and is pressed to go into the public, keep the outing short and always follow the 6 feet distancing rule.
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Remember to always wash your hands (and any siblings hands) as soon as you return home.
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Source: Nationwide Children’s Hospital/CDC Covid-19 Information