The requirements for FFP2 masks for children are high. Not only should they sit securely and snugly on the face, but they should also allow little ones enough air to breathe. Buying tips and everything else you should know about FFP2 masks for children.
The omicron variant of the corona virus (with all variants) has been spreading across Germany for months. The nationwide 7-day incidence is increasing again significantly despite test fatigue. At schools and in day-care centers, elementary school students and small children are also becoming increasingly infected with the apparently highly contagious corona pathogen. Protecting this vulnerable group is one of many challenges that politics and society have to face in the autumn. A correctly worn mouth and nose cover, as numerous studies have shown, is one of the most important measures, alongside vaccination, to protect yourself and others from infection or at least to minimize the risk of infection. This applies equally to adults and children. But while FFP masks for adults are plentiful and available almost everywhere, the choice for small faces is rather limited.
FFP2 masks for children: This is important when buying
Putting a normal-sized FFP2 mask on daycare children and abc shooters not only looks silly. It is uncomfortable and does not protect either the child or those around him. But what do you have to pay attention to if the junior is to be equipped with an FFP2 mask instead of a surgical mask in the future? First of all, you should pay attention to the so-called CE mark, because only these products are also approved in the European Union. “The masks must regularly meet the requirements of the DIN EN 149:2009-08 standard,” says the website of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices.
You can usually tell whether the masks are specially tailored to small faces by the instructions on the packaging. Look for something like “Comfort S”, “Size Small”, “Mini” or “Mini XS”. According to a current test of FFP2 masks (December 2021) for children, Stiftung Warentest also recommends a mask from 3M, which was actually developed for adults. Compared to others, the 3M Aura 9320 model also offers breathing comfort for children that is okay, according to the testers. In addition, the filter effect is high and the fit is suitable for children. For continuous use in school, however, the Stiftung Warentest recommends the somewhat more comfortable surgical masks. In places where there is an increased risk of infection in a short period of time, such as on public transport, the 3M model fulfills its purpose, according to Stiftung Warentest.
Instead of the mask in standard white, some manufacturers use patterns and child-friendly designs for mouth and nose protection for children. Some at least offer their FFP2 masks in alternative colors. Of course, the CE marking is also mandatory here. The two main differences between the masks for adults and those for children are the size of the filter and the length of the elastics. In size S, the mini masks are also recommended for men and women with small faces.
Source: Stiftung Warentest
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