Around 25 thousand people are affected with Coronavirus with 500 deaths so far and the fear has not spared Bangladesh either. As a result, the usage of facemasks has risen along with its price. But specialists say that masks are not needed for all.
They say that only the affected person, his/her doctor and close relatives need to wear masks.
Masks can also be used when there is an epidemic. After the Coronavirus outbreak, masks have been sold out and those who used to sell masks in the past are not supplying them anymore.
Medicine administration says: “An artificial crisis is being created. Traders are resorting to unfair means to increase profit.”
One buyer recently said after scouring the Shahbagh market: “One will be able to find the most expensive medicine here but not masks.”
A seller says: “The yearly demand is around ten thousand pieces but that has suddenly risen to 2 to 3 lakh.”
Doctors are saying that only those who are suffering from cold, fever or cough can wear masks.
Since no person affected with Coronavirus has been found in Bangladesh, wearing of masks is not needed, opine doctors.
The also said that the masks used in Bangladesh are ordinary adding that N-95 masks must be used to protect oneself from the spread of virus.
Widespread mask usage is not needed because this may create panic.
Assistant professor of virology of DMCH, Dr. Zahid adds: “The masks made from cloth are ineffective against virus and bacteria. On the other hand, prolonged usage of masks can aggravate breathing complexities in a person and can lead to heart attacks. We need to focus more on washing our hands properly.”