While there are more than 31,000 cases of coronavirus worldwide and 636 deaths, the WHO warns of a possible shortage of protective equipment. This lack concerns simple masks, for the general population, but also the protective clothing used by medical personnel.
100 times higher than normal demand
Over-blouse, charlottes, glasses and specific masks ... crucial but threatening material. This shortage, which particularly penalizes China, is due in particular to the exploding demand. It is 100 times higher than normal, in a market which was previously a niche market. At the same time, the price of equipment has soared: it has multiplied by 20 since the start of the crisis.
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WHO therefore advises countries where transmission is low not to stock up, and recommends that all masks be given priority to medical personnel and the sick. Restrictive measures justified by a sharp extension of delivery times: they are now between four and six months.