Is the mask bad for your health? Let’s debunk some hoaxes about the use of masks.
Many buffaloes circulate on the web. Some are particularly dangerous because they concern health issues.
The pandemic from Covid-19 it has definitely created a formidable breeding ground for these outlandish theories.
Whether they arise from conspiracy, ignorance or naivety, certain news contributes to triggering panic and offers no help in tackling the problem.
Let’s debunk some hoaxes and false information on the use of masks.
Myth: The mask is bad for children’s health
Those who spread this theory speak of the risk of alkalosis due to excess carbon dioxide. Among the widespread rumors we have this, sometimes in the variant “acidosis” instead of alkalosis.
The Italian Society of Pediatrics reassures us, explaining that a healthy child does not breathe too much carbon dioxide with the mask. Even if he used it all day, he would not suffer from alkalosis, nor to poor oxygen supply. We are talking about the use of certified masks, which are made of breathable materials.
Does the mask weaken the immune system?
This is not true either, indeed, the use of the protective device in situations that require it protects the weakest subjects. By avoiding the transmission of the virus, which can also occur between asymptomatic people, immunosuppressed people are especially protected.
Certainly the child does not have to wear the mask all day, but only in risky situations.
Is the mask bad for children with asthma?
In fact, asthmatics could benefit from using a mask. In fact, this decreases the inhalation of pollen and other allergens that trigger asthma. If they use certified surgical masks, there is no risk of bronchospasm.
In general, the use of surgical or cloth masks is recommended to go to school. The use of FFP2 or FFP3 is to be reserved for situations involving proximity to subjects positive to the virus or in a hospital setting.
Clearly, no advice found on the web can replace the opinion of the attending physician.
Who shouldn’t wear it?
Reliable information is available and useful precautions are clearly indicated.
It is indeed true that you should not use the mask while doing sports. It should not be used while running, cycling or jogging. It is not needed and should not be used outdoors when the safety distances are respected.
Children under 6 years of age and those with disabilities or diseases not compatible with prolonged use of the mask are exempt from the use of the mask.
So is the mask bad for your health?
The Fnomceo, National Federation of Orders of Surgeons and Dentists, has responded to these and other doubts. It is all available on the portal maintained by the Federation: dottoremaeveroche.it.
