There's a very real problem with the actions of some people in this day and age.
No, I'm not talking about people still being unable to grasp the concept of social distancing (though that is huge problem- it's really not that hard people). I'm talking about people hoarding medical supplies left and right- gloves, gowns, masks- you name it, and it seems hospitals are having issues getting it.
Doctors in COVID-19 hotspots in the US are running dangerously low on N95 respirator masks. These masks, designed to fit incredibly close to the face and filter out 95% of airborne particles (thus "N95") need to be fit tested by individuals within medical organizations in order to be effective. So buying them in bulk, without a proper fitting, won't do anything for you, despite what some people believe. I should know. I work in a lab, and I use one on a fairly frequent basis.
It's gotten to a point now where doctors are having to improvise. There's talk of doctors having to use bandanas or diapers (seriously- what?!) as DIY masks. To paraphrase one source I saw online- that's essentially like telling somebody on the SWAT team to wear a few t-shirts instead of a bullet proof vest.
Seems obvious that this just won't work, right?
Not to everybody.
There's a serious shortage right now. Some have grabbed as many masks as possible out of a sense of security. Some are now selling these masks to turn a profit. This isn't the only case of this happening either; there's cases all over of individuals buying high-demand supplies (think: hand sanitizer, or even more in demand, toilet paper) and selling them at a profit. One Kijiji ad I saw was selling a package of toilet paper for $500 (or 3 for $1500. What a deal!). Quite frankly, people pulling stunts like that should face some kind of consequence. It's disgusting to be taking advantage of people in a time where people are afraid and uncertain.
It's even more disgusting that we're taking these supplies away from people that are working to save lives during all this. Doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals need masks more than you or I do. Redirect them where they're most needed.
Look, I get it. It's easy to feel uneasy right now. But buying 100 rolls of toilet paper or tub of hand sanitizer right now won't be the thing that saves us. Coronavirus is here now. Save the supplies for the people that need them- the people that are working to save us.
(Image from Unsplash)
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