display
Düsseldorf / Münster (dpa / lnw) - The issue of a total of around 20 million FFP2 masks for people from Corona risk groups in North Rhine-Westphalia has started well according to the pharmacists' associations.
"Some of the patients are really overjoyed and grateful to be holding a mask in their hands that provides the best possible protection," said Thomas Preis, head of the North Rhine Pharmacists' Association, of the German Press Agency on Tuesday.
Long queues formed in some places, he reported.
The patients are usually very disciplined and understanding.
The vast majority of pharmacies have managed to "master the logistical masterpiece" within a very short time and provide sufficient masks for the initial demand, said Nina Grunsky, spokeswoman for the Westphalia-Lippe Pharmacists' Association.
Pharmacies would only be waiting for supplies in isolated cases.
"The colleagues do everything they can to care for the patients," she said.
Further deliveries are expected continuously, reported both associations.
"There is absolutely no reason to storm the pharmacies," said Thomas Preis.
"We expect that gradually all eligible patients will have received their three free FFP2 Maksen by Christmas," he said.
He advised picking up the masks to be combined with a visit to the pharmacy that was already planned in order to avoid double waiting times.
"Many also have a great need for advice on how to wear the mask and what to watch out for," he said.
display
Nationwide, around 27 million people from risk groups have been able to receive free FFP2 masks since Tuesday.
The pharmacies are issuing the protective masks in a step-by-step process - initially all people over 60 and people with certain chronic diseases are entitled to three masks free of charge until January 6th.
In the new year you can get twelve more masks with coupons from the health insurance company - an own contribution of two euros each for six masks is provided.
FFP2 masks are particularly effective in filtering particles from inhaled or exhaled air, but they also do not offer 100 percent protection.
Information from the Federal Ministry of Health on the distribution campaign