Kids aged over two years should wear masks: UAE official

Dubai - Children are not safe from Covid-19, even though the chances of them contracting the virus are less.

Children aged over two years must wear masks while stepping out of their homes, a top UAE government official has advised. However, he said that children with breathing issues or chronic illnesses shouldn't be made to wear them. Children who have difficulty removing the masks on their own should be exempted, too, the official added.
Dr Omar Al Hammadi, the UAE Government spokesperson, stressed that children are not safe from Covid-19, even though the chances of them contracting the virus are less. "However, they can be carriers of the virus and infect others," said Dr Al Hammadi.
This came as the official addressed a virtual Press briefing on Monday. Dr Al Hammadi stressed the importance of wearing masks and ensuring social distancing. "Wearing masks reduces the chances of transmission of Covid-19, which mainly spreads through direct contact with an infected person and through droplets produced through his/her sneeze, cough or even conversations."
The official also answered a couple of questions posed by the media.
Does Covid-19 spread through swimming pools?
There is no scientific evidence to prove that Covid-19 spreads through swimming pools. Just ensure that you maintain an adequate social distance from other swimmers and wear masks as soon as you step out of the water.
If a person is Covid-negative as established by a test, can he/she visit relatives?
Even if you are Covid-negative, do not stop adhering to precautionary measures like social distancing and mask use. You can be infected any time.
sahim@khaleejtimes.com