Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji (SHP)
Panaji, Feb 4: The Goa tourists have reportedly caused a surge in the demand for face masks in view of the coronavirus outbreak in China. "The specialised N-95 masks are not available. People do not need to use specialised masks they can do with a three-layered mask if necessary. It costs relatively less and is a one-time use mask that should be replaced after six hours of use," said state epidemiologist Dr Utkarsh Betodkar.
Kedar Jirage, proprietor and chief pharmacist at Jeevan Rekha medical stores in Panaji, claims to sell over 30 to 35 masks a day. “They are bought majorly by travellers," said Jirage.
He stated that his pharmacy received an order for the supply of 100-150 masks, which could not be fulfilled. The person who placed the order wanted to send them to China. Raj Vaidya, the chief pharmacist at Panaji Hindu Pharmacy, said they too have sold more masks since the new disease surfaced.
Betodkar, however, warned people not to buy masks unnecessarily, particularly the N-95 kind, to avoid the shortage of masks. “Correct disposal of masks is very important,” he added. He said the specialised masks are meant for the use of doctors and health workers who are exposed to the infection.
Since the outbreak, Goa has reported two cases of the suspected coronavirus. The suspected people are quarantined at Goa Medical College and Hospital, while 14 others are under observation. The blood and nasal swab samples of one patient was sent for testing at Pune's National Institute of Virology (NIV). The report of the other patient, a foreigner is awaited.