A chief nurse from Public Health England (PHE) has issued an urgent warning on face masks for parents of children under three.
Professor Viv Bennett has said that young children and babies should not wear masks because they are 'potentially dangerous' and 'can cause choking and suffocation'.
Her warning comes as face coverings will be compulsory in shops and supermarkets in England from tomorrow, Friday, July 24.
PHE decided to speak out after finding out that some face masks and covering were being sold specifically for children, the Liverpool Echo reports.
Professor Viv Bennett, chief nurse at the agency, said: "PHE has been made aware that face coverings for babies and very young children are available for sale in England.
"Guidance is clear that children under the age of three years should not wear face coverings or masks.
"These masks should not be used as they are potentially dangerous and can cause choking and suffocation.
"If you or your child is unwell with the symptoms of Covid-19, then you should get a test and stay at home until you get the result.
"If you are worried then you should call 111 or speak to your doctor."
