Coronavirus triggers almost 300% spike in prices of surgical masks amid increase in demand

Amid Coronavirus scare in India and 29 confirmed cases reported, demand for surgical masks is seeing a massive spike. Chemist shops and pharmacies are grappling to fulfill this escalated demand, leading to a surge in prices of masks up to nearly 300 percent. t only has this panic led to a surge in price and demand of surgical masks but it has also affected prices of N95 masks and sanitizers. Surgical masks that would sell at Rs10 are w allegedly being sold at Rs 40. 

Read: WATCH: Health Min Issues Detailed Coronavirus Update In Rajya Sabha; '29 positive Cases'

Most of supply of masks would come from China, however since ir internal demand has soared amidst outbreak, most chemist shops are relying on leftover stocks or stocks provided by domestic manufacturers. 

Read: WB BJP Unit Distribute Masks With 'Save From Coronavirus Infection, Modi Ji' Printed On It

chemists fear a short in stock of said items in a few days as demand surged massively after government issued health advisory against deadly virus. "We have sanitizers and masks currently in ample stock, but ir demand has been rising in past few days so a short may arise in coming days." 

"Sanitizers, especially, are being demanded more since advisory was issued. Currently, though we have ample stock to meet demand," Vishwajit, a chemist told news ncy ANI.

Read: Request Shaheen Bagh Protest To Halt For Few Days Because Of Coronavirus: Sirsa's Appeal

If such a short occurs, n impact on health workers would be worst. Experts have been advising that those who are healthy should refrain from wearing and hoarding masks since y are more important for those who are infected with virus so as to arrest spread of disease. Masks are also more important for healthcare workers who need to safeguard mselves since y come in contact with patients on a daily basis.

Read: Millions Of Students Out Of School As World Battles Coronavirus

'29 positive cases' 

While speaking about Coronavirus situation in Rajya Sabha, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan said, "In our country as on March 4 total of 29 positive cases have been reported so far, of se three cases were reported in Kerala earlier who have since recovered and have been discharged already."

"Since last three days, travel-related cases have increased in our country. first one is from Delhi with a travel history to Italy. On from Telanga with travel history from Dubai and contact with a person from Singapore. Both are clinically stable. Six more cases have been tested positive in Agra, Uttar Pradesh with a contact history with person from Delhi. Rapid Action as per cluster manment plan has been initiated," he added.  

(With ncy Inputs)