To Mask or Not to Mask-Evaluation of Cognitive Performance in Children Wearing Face Masks during School Lessons (MasKids).

Anne Schlegtendal,Thomas Lücke,Folke Brinkmann,Kathrin Sinningen,Michael Falkenstein,Anna Hoffmann,Lynn Eitner

doi:10.3390/children9010095

Anne Schlegtendal, Thomas Lücke + Show 5 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/children9010095

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Abstract

In the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, wearing a face mask is mandatory again during school lessons. There are no controlled studies in children to date indicating an effect on cognitive performance from wearing face masks. In a randomized controlled trial, we analysed the influence of face masks on cognitive performance of pupils during regular school lessons. Pupils (n = 133, fifth to seventh grade) were randomized by alternating allocation into control (with masks, n = 65) and intervention groups (without mask, n = 68). After two school lessons with (control) and without (intervention) face masks in class, all pupils performed digital tests for cognitive performance regarding attention and executive functions (switch, Corsi block-tapping, 2-back and flanker task). Overall, there were no significant differences in cognitive performance between both groups, masks vs. no masks. Wearing face masks has no significant influence on attention and executive functions of pupils and can still be recommended during school lessons.

Highlights

In the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it is highly recommended to wear face masks to significantly reduce the spread of the virus [1]
All SARSCoV-2 tests of the students without face masks were negative, and no case of COVID-19 occurred in the classes during and after the study
After the usual 15-minute break that followed, during which students are allowed to take of their face masks outside, students were randomized into one group with face mask (n = 73) and one without face mask (n = 69)

Summary

Introduction

In the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it is highly recommended to wear face masks to significantly reduce the spread of the virus [1]. In many areas, wearing a face mask is mandatory, including for school-age children during school lessons. Goh et al examined end-tidal pCO2, and oxygen saturation in 106 children aged 7–14 at rest and on exertion, finding no relevant hypoxemia or hypercapnia [3]. During high-intensity exercise, wearing a face mask can have a relevant influence [7]. Children wearing FFP2/K95 masks were more stressed, which was shown, for example, by a higher breathing rate or higher end-tidal CO2. Other relevant parameters were not significantly affected (oxygen saturation or pulse rate), and the effect could probably be reduced by wearing a surgical mask [8]

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