Elsevier established a free COVID-19 resource centre in January 2020, offering information in English and Mandarin. The centre grants permission for free access to its research in PubMed Central and other repositories. The article discusses the role of mass masking in controlling the pandemic, noting that while it has been effective in China, its sustainability is uncertain. The WHO advises against masks in community settings, but the lack of evidence of effectiveness does not mean masks are ineffective. Masks can help reduce stigma and prevent transmission from asymptomatic individuals. A global shortage of masks has led to panic buying, but masks can also protect others through source control. Governments must prepare for mass panic and find sustainable alternatives. The article also addresses the impact of school closures on children's health. Prolonged home confinement may lead to reduced physical activity, increased screen time, and mental health issues. Schools and governments need to provide effective online learning and support children's mental health. Parents play a crucial role in supporting children's well-being during this time. The article emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to address the physical and mental health impacts of the pandemic on children. Finally, the article questions whether China has experienced only a first wave of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Serosurveys could help determine the true attack rate and assess the risk of future waves. The article calls for urgent action to address the health impacts of the pandemic on children and to prepare for potential future waves.Elsevier established a free COVID-19 resource centre in January 2020, offering information in English and Mandarin. The centre grants permission for free access to its research in PubMed Central and other repositories. The article discusses the role of mass masking in controlling the pandemic, noting that while it has been effective in China, its sustainability is uncertain. The WHO advises against masks in community settings, but the lack of evidence of effectiveness does not mean masks are ineffective. Masks can help reduce stigma and prevent transmission from asymptomatic individuals. A global shortage of masks has led to panic buying, but masks can also protect others through source control. Governments must prepare for mass panic and find sustainable alternatives. The article also addresses the impact of school closures on children's health. Prolonged home confinement may lead to reduced physical activity, increased screen time, and mental health issues. Schools and governments need to provide effective online learning and support children's mental health. Parents play a crucial role in supporting children's well-being during this time. The article emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to address the physical and mental health impacts of the pandemic on children. Finally, the article questions whether China has experienced only a first wave of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Serosurveys could help determine the true attack rate and assess the risk of future waves. The article calls for urgent action to address the health impacts of the pandemic on children and to prepare for potential future waves.