With the back-to-school season upon us, it’s essential to remember the importance of masking our youngest family members. While no child (or anyone!) wants to wear a mask, they’re the best tools to keep our children and our families safe.

COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses are still present this school year, and we’ve even seen significant increases in the prevalence of COVID-19 in wastewater. This shows the potential for a new COVID-19 wave, and children are some of the most exposed to the virus.

While children tend to be less susceptible to the severe impacts of the virus, they can also pass the virus to other family members who might be more at risk. Furthermore, we still don’t completely understand the impacts of the virus, and it’s important to minimise our chances of catching it whenever possible.

Looking past COVID, much of the U.S. and Canada still feel the impacts of wildfires spreading smoke throughout the countries. This haze is another reason that masks are so important for back-to-school this year.

Whether for allergies, wildfire smoke, or airborne illnesses, protecting our youngest family members as they return to school for the new year is important. Not only are you safeguarding their health, but you’re giving them the best chance at a successful school year.