High quality N-95 mask in short supply at affected areas

Kozhikode: Mask is the much sought after gear for medical fraternity in the times of Nipah, but there is a shortage of quality stuff. 

N-95 mask, a three-layered one that claims to prevent even 0.3-micron test particles from contact, is much in demand. However, authorities have only a few to supply. 

Even doctors at the primary health centres and community health centres in and around NiV hit Perambra got the mask and personal protection equipment (PPE) on Thursday only. 

PPE consists of protective clothing, glove, face masks and goggles. “We are at risk,” says a doctor at a CHC in Perambra. 

“PPE was not available in the initial days. The instruction was to use three normal masks at a time and to wash hands using soap at regular intervals. It’s not possible during OP time.”

Doctors working in rural areas also have the experience of patients coughing and sneezing without any cover in the consulting room. 

Of late PPE kit had been distributed, but it doesn’t meet the requirement as there are nurses, health inspectors, pharmacists and attenders in each centre.

Kozhikode DMO Dr V. Jayashree said PPE kits would be distributed as per the requirement and more are arriving. 

The sudden demand of N-95 mask has made traders place bulk orders as they don't keep the normally. 

“We are receiving queries and companies are supplying it. The price per piece ranges from Rs 80 to Rs 110,” said Roby of Calicut Surgicals.