Why Should Mask Mandates for Children Under 5 Not Be Lifted Prematurely?
Carla Alaimo
It is irresponsible and unethical to abandon mask mandates in public places before every American has access to a vaccine, particularly as young children under 5 have a higher rate of severe COVID-19 symptoms and fatalities than older children. This puts little ones and their parents in a precarious position, forcing them to make difficult decisions such as whether to work or shop, ultimately risking bringing harmful viruses home to their children. By granting privileged Americans the right to disregard the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, we further distance ourselves from our nation's founding values and create a society that can no longer solve collective problems.
Although children under 5 account for the lowest percentage of COVID-19 cases, their mortality rate due to the virus is higher than that of older children. They are responsible for 10% of pediatric COVID-19 deaths, according to the former Health Secretary Scott Gottlieb; 15% of cases, according to the CDC; but an alarming 35% of pediatric COVID-19 fatalities. These statistics highlight the gravity of the issue. In the United States, over 400 children under 5 have died from the virus, a shocking number that is unacceptable for any parent.
Additionally, many parents, including myself, take extra precautions to safeguard their children due to concerns about long-term effects of the virus. Reports from the CDC indicate that children who have had COVID-19 may be more susceptible to developing Diabetes later in life, and numerous studies suggest that a significant number of children who contracted COVID-19 are suffering from long-term symptoms. Dr. Sindhu Mohandas, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, predicted that between 10-20% of infected children may experience long-term health issues.
As a registered nurse, my husband has been on the frontlines treating COVID-19 patients since the pandemic began. We have gone to great lengths to ensure that our children do not contract the virus, including my husband moving to a different part of our home and missing out on time with our first daughter so that she remains COVID-19-free. It is unfathomable that after such sacrifices, I should now be confronted with the prospect of exposing my daughters to this virus simply because others have the privilege of being vaccinated but refuse to wear masks.
The argument that people should still be free to choose whether or not to wear masks hides a glaring lack of understanding. For children under 2, including my daughters, masks are not recommended as they pose a choking hazard. For older children and adults, even with masks, the risk of contracting the virus remains, especially in the case of the explosive and highly contagious Omicron variant.
The removal of mask mandates will isolate young children and their parents, who wish to avoid infecting their children, from public spaces. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 39,000 women entered the workforce in January, compared to over 1 million men.
It is unfathomable that things should be made more difficult for us.
This individualistic mindset—that people should do what feels best for them, regardless of the impact on others' health and social opportunities—is poisonous to our society. As a political scientist, I can’t help but bring attention to Alexis de Tocqueville's observation in Democracy in America that America is great due to the individual spirit of its citizens—the ability of individuals to unite for collective problem-solving.
Lifting mask mandates would, of course, have the opposite effect. This would allow for the spread of the virus and hinder its containment. In turn, it would create a society driven by egoism, making it more difficult for any problem to be solved—certainly not the kind of environment in which I want to raise my children.
Politicians, of course, rely on public opinion and political aspirations when making decisions. However, local school districts and private businesses should have the backbone to maintain mask mandates until vaccines are available for everyone.
While lifting mask mandates ignores the realities of children under 5 and other vulnerable populations facing serious health concerns due to COVID-19, it sets a concerning pattern. If we pretend that things do not exist, they will disappear, unfortunately not the case.
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While the CDC still advocates for mask-wearing, some individuals refuse to comply with these guidelines, citing their personal opinions and freedoms as justification. Disregard for public health recommendations can put vulnerable populations such as children under 5, who are more susceptible to severe COVID-19 symptoms and complications like MIS-C (Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children), at risk.
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Public health is a fundamental concern in the debate about mask mandates, given the greater vulnerability of children under 5 to COVID-19. According to the CDC, children under 5 account for 0-4% of COVID-19 cases, but they are responsible for 10% of pediatric COVID-19 deaths and 15% of cases. This highlights the need for continued precautions for this vulnerable population. The scientific community has also observed that children with comorbidities, particularly those with conditions affecting their immune systems or respiratory systems, are at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms.
Parents of young children are taking extra measures to shield their children from potential long-term effects of COVID-19, such as Diabetes, which is reportedly more common in children who have had COVID-19. Additionally, there are concerns about the long-term effects of COVID-19, with some studies suggesting that between 10-20% of children infected with the virus may experience long-term health issues.
The debate on masks extends beyond health concerns to issues of civil liberties and individual freedoms. There is ongoing debate on whether mask mandates infringe on personal freedom, civic rights, and the right to make choices about one's health. Some argue that mask mandates impose excessive restrictions on daily life and business operations, creating economic and social challenges.
Political polarization plays a significant role in the debate around mask mandates. Republicans tend to be more skeptical about mask mandates, while Democrats generally prioritize preventive measures to combat the spread of COVID-19. The debate also reflects broader concerns about government overreach during the pandemic. Some argue that government-enforced mask mandates infringe on civil liberties, while supporters see them as a necessary precaution to protect vulnerable populations from the potential harm posed by COVID-19.
Scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of masks in reducing the transmission of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19. A study published in the journal of Annals of Epidemiology found that indoor mask mandates are effective in reducing community transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and suggested that implementing mask mandates is essential for mitigating the spread of the virus during the pandemic.
The debate over mask mandates for children under 5 is complex, with considerations of public health, civil liberties, and ethical concerns playing a role in the discussion. In light of the increased vulnerability of this population to severe COVID-19 symptoms and fatalities, it is crucial to balance individual freedoms and public health concerns to protect the most vulnerable among us.
