Wearing masks increases risk of choking and heat strokes in infants: Experts

While, coronavirus guidelines across the world are encouraging people to wear masks experts in Japan have now said that face masks can be dangerous for children below the age of 2 as they increase the risk of choking and heat strokes in infants.
 
According to Japan's pediatric association, children have narrow air passages and masks increase the burden on their hearts.
 
Japanese parents have been warned against using masks for children under the age of 2.

Researchers believe that all infants do not need masks because they are relatively at low risk of contracting the virus.
 
There have been very few cases of serious coronavirus among children and there have been almost no outbreaks at day care facilities.
 
The US Center for Disease Control too has advised parents against using cloth face coverings on children below  two years old.
 
The American academy of pediatrics has sent out a similar advisory. 

But the question arises that what if parents do not want to take a risk?

If masks are not the best option, how must babies be protected when at a crowded place or surrounded by potentially infected adults?

A hospital in Bangkok has come with the perfect solution by gearing newborns with tiny face guards.
 
The transparent shields guard a baby's face without covering it. There is also enough room for ventilation.
 
Similar shields were also given to babies at a Costa Rica hospital.
 
However, parents must consult a healthcare professional before using any protective gear on infants.