Pediatric Mask Fit Study

Respiratory Tract Infections

This study will evaluate the performance of various face masks and respirators on children by examining their fitted filtration efficiency (FFE) and mask fit. It will also evaluate the impact of different types of mask modifications (for example, twisting the ear loops, tuck and tie) on FFE and mask fit, with the goal of determining how to optimize mask performance in children. It will also provide information on mask and respirator comfort and acceptability. This data will help inform public health messaging around mask choice for children and also modifications that can be made to improve fit for children who may not have access to various mask types.

This will be a prospective cross-sectional study of 200 children aged 4 to 17 years. Participants will be assigned to either the mask type assessment (Objective 1) or the mask modification assessment (Objective 2) and have a date and time scheduled for testing. The mask type assessment will compare the FFE and fit factor of a cloth mask, child and adult medical mask, child and adult KN95 respirator, and N95 respirator. The mask modification assessment will compare the FFE and fit factor of a child medical mask, adult medical mask with and without modifications (tuck and tie, twisted ear loops), and child and adult N95 respirator. Quantitative fit testing will be conducted using a TSI Portacount Pro Respirator Fit Tester model 8038+. Testing will be performed in an identified designated area at the hospital or in the community (i.e., schools or community center), monitored for ventilation, temperature and humidity. We will also measure the ambient particles to ensure adequate particle count. The participants will be asked to evaluate the mask, respirator or modification based on a variety of criteria including comfort, breathability and acceptability. This will be completed immediately after the fit assessment.

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Canada