Masks in all shapes, sizes and colours flood the markets

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended N95 masks to avoid COVID.

However, access to these masks are low in pharmacies across the city and online retailers are also unable to meet the demand. The CDC states that the mask must be given to medical professionals on priority, while locals can use other kinds of cloth masks, which also offer protection from infection. N95 masks can be bought for approximately Rs 250 and used for three days in total.

The most popular mask is the two or three-ply single-use disposable masks, which cost between Rs 16 and Rs 25 in the city. One shopkeeper, who uses a single-use three-ply mask, said, “I keep this on the whole day and don’t touch the mask with hands. I remove it at the end of the day and throw it. It is convenient to use at work, and cheap, too.” Other masks seen in the city are the anti-pollution and dust mask, recognisable with its yellow cloth and black straps. This mask costs Rs 150 to Rs 170, and can also be used for around three days.

“This was the only kind of mask available at the medical store. It can be used for longer than a disposable mask and offers more protection. Since I do not travel much, I bought this as I can use the mask for longer,” said Senthil, a resident of Kodambakkam.

Many in the city have taken to masks with various prints, colours and designs, which are not medical-grade. These masks are commercially-made and thus cost differently based on the manufacturer.

“I bought these masks to be used while riding. They are also useful now to prevent disease. As single-use masks are pollutants, these masks are great because I can wash them and use them indefinitely,” said Ramya, a resident of Anna Nagar. For a few others in the city, good old handkerchiefs and torn parts of dupattas offer colourful alternatives that can be washed and reused.