As the coronavirus has spread rapidly in the poorest parts of the Amazon's biggest city, a local priest has begun to make masks in his church and hand them out across his parish.

Catholic priest gives out masks in coronavirus-stricken Amazon favela

Israel has come up with a remote-controlled mask that lets people to eat while wearing it. But is eating out worth the risk? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: A mask with a remote control

Chinese fashion designer Zhou Li is combining fashion with function, by creating trendy silk masks embroidered with orchids, camellias and Chinese characters symbolizing good luck, as she believes there will be a long-term demand for masks to protect people's health amid ongoing concerns about the coronavirus.

Chinese designer creates fashionable masks and suits to prevent coronavirus spread

A growing number of African countries have made it compulsory to wear masks in public to prevent the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease. Fashion lovers in the continent's biggest cities are combining style and safety by donning colourful masks, sometimes coordinating the fabric with their outfits.

Style-conscious Africans turn compulsory masks into fashion accessories

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya.

This trend has caught up over the last few days after textile exporters in the state’s knitwear and textile export hub Tiruppur decided to give masks a new face.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="793b4a72-7817-473e-89e2-5015f7c58bde" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_38.jpg" />

With protective face masks becoming an inseparable accessory since the start of the countrywide lockdown in late March, textile manufacturers and exporters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur have started making cloth masks. While the mainstay of the textile industry is export-quality garments, the lockdown has given rise to more makers of cloth masks.&nbsp;

“We have been in the garments export business for about 24 years, but this during this lockdown with the limited staff we started making cloth masks to cater to the rising demand. For about 45 days now we’ve been making PPE and masks. We initially supplied it to a few government staff and later on, we turned it into a business opportunity” Chandrakumar, CEO Sentinel clothing told WION.&nbsp;

With sales and export of garments having nearly dried up during the lockdown, the garment industries have been churning out masks and PPEs in a few thousand every day, with the help of limited staff who are turning up for work. The same equipment that are used for garment manufacturing are now being re-assigned to make masks.

<img alt="Mask" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31151f75-d088-4d05-9b74-672230a0d2dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_22.jpg" />

“We were initially making masks with zodiac signs printed on them and also 7-color sets for a week, but what really was a hit among the masses was the masks with actors faces on them. Right from masks with prints of evergreen comedian Vadivelu to the action heroes, the demand soared over the last week as we were the only ones experimenting with this. While the plain masks cost 10.Rs apiece the printed ones cost 15, but people prefer the fashionable ones” Chandrakumar added.&nbsp;

In recent times the orders for customized masks have piled up from various corporates, schools and even political parties. Suppliers in Tirupur have received orders from the AIADMK and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, both of whom chose to have their party logo and flag printed on the masks. &nbsp;

While their factory has the capacity to make about 50,000 masks a day, Chadrakumar’s factory makes only about 5000 due to the less availability of workers. However, he feels that the high demand for masks would last for at least 3 months from now.

Over 30 textile units in Tiruppur alone are involved in making masks using the cloth materials.

With the increasing Covid-19 cases in India and the WHO reports that mention about the virus being here to stay, masks are likely to play a greater role in coming times- that of a fashion accessory and a personal statement.

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya.

Protective face masks tend to hide one's identity and facial features, but in Tamil Nadu masks themselves are having a face of their own. Mask wearers are now sporting printed masks of their favourite stars such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith and Surya. This trend has caught up over the last few days after textile exporters in the state’s knitwear and textile export hub Tiruppur decided to give masks a new face. With protective face masks becoming an inseparable accessory since the start of the countrywide lockdown in late March, textile manufacturers and exporters from Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur have started making cloth masks. While the mainstay of the textile industry is export-quality garments, the lockdown has given rise to more makers of cloth masks. “We have been in the garments export business for about 24 years, but this during this lockdown with the limited staff we started making cloth masks to cater to the rising demand. For about 45 days now we’ve been making PPE and masks. We initially supplied it to a few government staff and later on, we turned it into a business opportunity” Chandrakumar, CEO Sentinel clothing told WION. With sales and export of garments having nearly dried up during the lockdown, the garment industries have been churning out masks and PPEs in a few thousand every day, with the help of limited staff who are turning up for work. The same equipment that are used for garment manufacturing are now being re-assigned to make masks. “We were initially making masks with zodiac signs printed on them and also 7-color sets for a week, but what really was a hit among the masses was the masks with actors faces on them. Right from masks with prints of evergreen comedian Vadivelu to the action heroes, the demand soared over the last week as we were the only ones experimenting with this. While the plain masks cost 10.Rs apiece the printed ones cost 15, but people prefer the fashionable ones” Chandrakumar added. In recent times the orders for customized masks have piled up from various corporates, schools and even political parties. Suppliers in Tirupur have received orders from the AIADMK and Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam, both of whom chose to have their party logo and flag printed on the masks. While their factory has the capacity to make about 50,000 masks a day, Chadrakumar’s factory makes only about 5000 due to the less availability of workers. However, he feels that the high demand for masks would last for at least 3 months from now. Over 30 textile units in Tiruppur alone are involved in making masks using the cloth materials. With the increasing Covid-19 cases in India and the WHO reports that mention about the virus being here to stay, masks are likely to play a greater role in coming times- that of a fashion accessory and a personal statement.

Mask of stars: In cinema-crazy Tamil Nadu protective masks get a filmy  face

As KLM plans to partially resume its flights, the aviation company has made face masks compulsory for all the passengers.

However, instead of providing the face masks, KLM has asked passengers to bring the masks from home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/german-national-stranded-at-indira-gandhi-international-airport-for-54-days-due-to-nationwide-lockdown-297956">Also read:&nbsp;German national stranded at Indira Gandhi International airport for 54 days due to nationwide lockdown</a>

"Wearing facial protection during boarding and on board is mandatory for KLM passengers. Passengers must ensure that they carry the required facial protection with them," KLM said.

Any passenger who will not have the adequate face protection gears will not be allowed to board the plane.

The rule has been set till August 31, 2020, and will be reviewed later depending on the number of coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

The airlines has also assured that all precautions regarding social distancing will be taken care of.

Lufthansa and Wizz Air, too, made face masks compulsory for all passengers.&nbsp;

As KLM plans to partially resume its flights, the aviation company has made face masks compulsory for all the passengers. However, instead of providing the face masks, KLM has asked passengers to bring the masks from home.

As KLM plans to partially resume its flights, the aviation company has made face masks compulsory for all the passengers. However, instead of providing the face masks, KLM has asked passengers to bring the masks from home. Also read: German national stranded at Indira Gandhi International airport for 54 days due to nationwide lockdown "Wearing facial protection during boarding and on board is mandatory for KLM passengers. Passengers must ensure that they carry the required facial protection with them," KLM said. Any passenger who will not have the adequate face protection gears will not be allowed to board the plane. The rule has been set till August 31, 2020, and will be reviewed later depending on the number of coronavirus cases. The airlines has also assured that all precautions regarding social distancing will be taken care of. Lufthansa and Wizz Air, too, made face masks compulsory for all passengers.

Passengers should carry their own face masks: KLM

An Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been charged with five counts, including use of criminal force, in a court for refusing to wear a face mask for protection against coronavirus and assaulting a police officer who tried to ascertain her identity.

Kasturi Govindasamy Retnamswamy was arrested after the incident that happened at a shopping mall on May 7 and was captured on video.

The 40-year old was remanded at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for psychiatric evaluation after the incident.

According to The Straits Times, she was taken to a court on Saturday and faced with five charges, including use of abusive words and criminal force against a public servant.

The next hearing is scheduled for May 22 after her remand in the IMH.

The woman is believed to have insulted the mall staff and hurled abuses at a security officer who was trying to get her to put on her mask correctly.

The widely-shared video of the incident shows a woman taunting a mall employee, demanding that he removes his face mask to speak to her.

The mall staff informed the police and when the officers requested to see her identity, she allegedly started peeling off the address sticker on her identity card.

Retnamswamy is the second person of Indian origin to be remanded at the IMH for psychiatric evaluation after the incident involving face masks.

Paramjeet Kaur, 40, who made headlines after videos emerged of her claiming to be a sovereign, when confronted for not wearing a mask in public, was charged on May 5 with one count of being a public nuisance and three counts of violating COVID-19 rules.

Kaur, a Singaporean, will attend her next court hearing on May 19.

An Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been charged with five counts, including use of criminal force, in a court for refusing to wear a face mask for protection against coronavirus and assaulting a police officer who tried to ascertain her identity.

An Indian-origin woman in Singapore has been charged with five counts, including use of criminal force, in a court for refusing to wear a face mask for protection against coronavirus and assaulting a police officer who tried to ascertain her identity. Kasturi Govindasamy Retnamswamy was arrested after the incident that happened at a shopping mall on May 7 and was captured on video. The 40-year old was remanded at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for psychiatric evaluation after the incident. According to The Straits Times, she was taken to a court on Saturday and faced with five charges, including use of abusive words and criminal force against a public servant. The next hearing is scheduled for May 22 after her remand in the IMH. The woman is believed to have insulted the mall staff and hurled abuses at a security officer who was trying to get her to put on her mask correctly. The widely-shared video of the incident shows a woman taunting a mall employee, demanding that he removes his face mask to speak to her. The mall staff informed the police and when the officers requested to see her identity, she allegedly started peeling off the address sticker on her identity card. Retnamswamy is the second person of Indian origin to be remanded at the IMH for psychiatric evaluation after the incident involving face masks. Paramjeet Kaur, 40, who made headlines after videos emerged of her claiming to be a sovereign, when confronted for not wearing a mask in public, was charged on May 5 with one count of being a public nuisance and three counts of violating COVID-19 rules. Kaur, a Singaporean, will attend her next court hearing on May 19.

Indian-origin woman faces charges for refusing to wear mask in Singapore

Coronavirus has forced humans to adapt and change their lifestyle, the pandemic has now forced software of the tech giants to adapt to the present scenario.

Apple has decided to update its Face ID unlock feature looking at the present situation due to the coronavirus pandemic. People have been forced to wear masks are a preventive measure which makes it difficult for the user to unlock his/her phones using FaceID.&nbsp;

The phone offers a passcode when it fails to recognise the user's face and the tech giant has decided to work on it. In the iOS 13.5 beta version will help the users directly swipe up and enter the passcode to skip the delay. According to Twitter users who use Apple iPhone with this version, the phone detects the masks and will automatically ask you the passcode.&nbsp;

The feature is still in beta version and is yet to be used widely. This technology will help users unlock their phones quickly.&nbsp;

Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 3.2 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia.

COVID-19 has now infected 3,257,520 people worldwide and 233,405 people have been killed due to this pandemic.

Around 1,014,809 people of that tally have recovered. 
&nbsp;

Coronavirus has forced humans to adapt and change their lifestyle, the pandemic has now forced software of the tech giants to adapt to the present scenario. Apple has decided to update its Face ID unlock feature looking at the present situation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus has forced humans to adapt and change their lifestyle, the pandemic has now forced software of the tech giants to adapt to the present scenario. Apple has decided to update its Face ID unlock feature looking at the present situation due to the coronavirus pandemic. People have been forced to wear masks are a preventive measure which makes it difficult for the user to unlock his/her phones using FaceID. The phone offers a passcode when it fails to recognise the user's face and the tech giant has decided to work on it. In the iOS 13.5 beta version will help the users directly swipe up and enter the passcode to skip the delay. According to Twitter users who use Apple iPhone with this version, the phone detects the masks and will automatically ask you the passcode. The feature is still in beta version and is yet to be used widely. This technology will help users unlock their phones quickly. Cases of infections of the deadly coronavirus surpassed 3.2 million worldwide on Friday as COVID-19 spreads across Europe, North America and South Asia. COVID-19 has now infected 3,257,520 people worldwide and 233,405 people have been killed due to this pandemic. Around 1,014,809 people of that tally have recovered.

Apple update makes it easier to unlock phone with face mask on!

As researchers scramble to find a way to safely disinfect N95 masks for reuse, many are turning to the man behind its virus-blocking technology. Peter Tsai invented the filtration fabric inside the mask nearly 30 years ago, and spent decades perfecting it, before retiring from the University of Tennessee last year.

N95 mask inventor abandons retirement plans to aid in COVID-19 crisis

A Haitian clothing manufacturer has switched from making pants for export to face masks and medical gear for local use in order to help the country battle the coronavirus pandemic.

Haitian clothing maker churns out face masks full time to battle coronavirus

The central government on Wednesday, released fresh guidelines for the COVID-19 lockdown, which has been extended till May 3.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-case-in-india-cross-11000-death-toll-reaches-377-292560">Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377</a>

According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), additional public activities will be allowed from April 20, like agriculture, horticulture activities and procurement of the same.&nbsp; 
 
As per the new guidelines for extended lockdown in the country, wearing of face mask is now compulsory in all public places and workplaces. Spitting in public places shall be punishable with a fine.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Contd... 
Consolidated Revised Guidelines for containment of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> (2/2)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeSaveLives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeSaveLives</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> <a href="https://t.co/h9qj8KeQg5">pic.twitter.com/h9qj8KeQg5</a>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1250284110636957698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

All agricultural &amp; horticultural activities to remain fully functional, such as - Shops of agriculture machinery, its spare parts (including its supply chain) and repairs to remain open. Movement (inter &amp; intrastate) of harvesting &amp; sowing related machines to remain operational.

Mandis' operated by APMC or as notified by the state/UT govt. Direct marketing operations by the state/UT govts or by industry, directly from farmers/group of farmers, FPOs co-operatives etc.

MNREGA workers are allowed to work with strict implementation of social distancing and wearing a face mask.

Bank branches and ATMs, IT vendors for banking operations, banking correspondents, ATM operation and cash management agencies to remain functional from now on.

Meanwhile, A total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. There are 9756 active cases in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.&nbsp;

The ministry also said that 1076 new cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours.

The central government on Wednesday, released fresh guidelines for the COVID-19 lockdown, which has been extended till May 3. Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377 According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), additional public activities will be allowed from April 20, like agriculture, horticulture activities and procurement of the same.

The central government on Wednesday, released fresh guidelines for the COVID-19 lockdown, which has been extended till May 3. Also read: Coronavirus case in India cross 11,000; death toll reaches 377 According to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), additional public activities will be allowed from April 20, like agriculture, horticulture activities and procurement of the same. As per the new guidelines for extended lockdown in the country, wearing of face mask is now compulsory in all public places and workplaces. Spitting in public places shall be punishable with a fine. Contd... Consolidated Revised Guidelines for containment of #COVID19 (2/2)#StayHome #StayHomeSaveLives #StayHomeStaySafe pic.twitter.com/h9qj8KeQg5 — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) April 15, 2020 × All agricultural & horticultural activities to remain fully functional, such as - Shops of agriculture machinery, its spare parts (including its supply chain) and repairs to remain open. Movement (inter & intrastate) of harvesting & sowing related machines to remain operational. Mandis' operated by APMC or as notified by the state/UT govt. Direct marketing operations by the state/UT govts or by industry, directly from farmers/group of farmers, FPOs co-operatives etc. MNREGA workers are allowed to work with strict implementation of social distancing and wearing a face mask. Bank branches and ATMs, IT vendors for banking operations, banking correspondents, ATM operation and cash management agencies to remain functional from now on. Meanwhile, A total number of 11,439 cases of coronavirus have been reported in India. So far, 377 people have succumbed to the infection in the country, while 1306 patients have been cured. There are 9756 active cases in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The ministry also said that 1076 new cases and 38 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours.

Centre releases new lockdown guidelines till May 3, makes wearing of face mask compulsory

Richard Mueller’s Easter bunnies are ready for the coronavirus crisis by wearing candy face masks with a toilet roll under their arm.

Chocolate maker creates Easter bunny dressed for quarantine times

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread.

Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially."

"Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too," he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of corona virus substantially. Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1247897474146000898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The chief minister said that he directed all government departments to stop all expenditures except salary.

A drastic cut in expenses is required considering the current revenue status, he added.

The meeting to discuss measures to contain the COVID-19 spread was attended by ministers and top officials of Delhi.

As on Tuesday, the total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital rose to 576, with 51 fresh cases and two deaths being reported in a day, according to the Delhi Health Department.&nbsp;

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread. Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that wearing a face mask is mandatory in Delhi when stepping outdoors to combat the coronavirus spread. Announcing the decision after a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of coronavirus substantially." "Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too," he tweeted. Wearing of facial masks can reduce the spread of corona virus substantially. Therefore, it has been decided that facial masks will be compulsory for anyone stepping out of their house. Cloth mask shall be eligible too. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 8, 2020 × The chief minister said that he directed all government departments to stop all expenditures except salary. A drastic cut in expenses is required considering the current revenue status, he added. The meeting to discuss measures to contain the COVID-19 spread was attended by ministers and top officials of Delhi. As on Tuesday, the total number of coronavirus cases in the national capital rose to 576, with 51 fresh cases and two deaths being reported in a day, according to the Delhi Health Department.

Kejriwal says face masks mandatory for people stepping outdoors in Delhi

With the onslaught of coronavirus induced panic buying along with global air pollution, face masks have become an inseparable part of our lives.

Along with hand sanitisers, masks are currently one of the most sought-after items.

Everyone across the world is sporting a mask right now, ranging from offices to public spaces to modes of public transport.

Masks are no longer just protective gear, they’re also a fashion statement and a political tool.

To understand how face masks gained such a strong symbolic identity, we need to understand its history.

Almost two centuries ago in 1897, the face mask made its debut in Paris. French surgeon Paul Berger wore it while performing a surgery.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-versus-the-internet-who-will-win-287686" hreflang="en">Coronavirus versus the internet: Who will win?</a>

In 1910, the mask made its way to China, and soon became a symbol of medical modernity. As the Pneumonic Plague hit the globe, the mask was seen as the primary preventive measure.

Later, with the advent of the Spanish Flu, the masks became a global phenomenon.

By 1918, everyone was trying to get hold of a surgical mask to protect themselves.

In the years following World War I, masks became a symbol of caring for the community. In China, they featured in the Communist Party's health campaigns.

In 2002, the world was hit with yet another epidemic, this time it was called SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

The demand for masks rose across Hong Kong, South East Asia and East Asia.

People were advised to wear a mask, and not to sneeze on others.

As times changed, so did the role of the face masks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-nasa-suspends-work-on-moon-rocket-287633" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic: NASA suspends work on Moon rocket</a>

In 2014, the surgical masks walked the runway in the China Fashion Week.

In 2015, designer Mash Ma brought it to the ramps of Paris. This time, it was studded with Swarovskis.

Soon, rappers were seen wearing masks.

For Ayleo and Mateo Bowles, it became a shield against&nbsp; those making fun of their facial expressions.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-wallet-demand-for-air-masks-increase-in-us-283995/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Masks and 2019

During the Hong kong protests, masks were a sign of unity, of exercising political dissent, of defiance, of anonymity, and most importantly - of revolution!

When pollution cast its spell on the Indian capital city, New Delhi, masks became a symbol of one’s struggle for survival.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-the-duration-of-covid-19-treatment-be-minimised-by-using-a-combination-of-drugs-287565" hreflang="en">Can the duration of COVID-19 treatment be minimised by using a combination of drugs?</a>

When Australia was burning, masks assumed the role of harbingers of climate crisis.

From an air filter, to an Instagram prop, and an emblem of our fight against another pandemic, the surgical masks have come a long way.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today, they come in different colours, shapes and styles.

They can be found in the pharmacies and also at designer stores.

Masks are a modern day shield against 21st century battles, be it climate change, autocracy, or pandemics.

With the onslaught of coronavirus induced panic buying along with global air pollution, face masks have become an inseparable part of our lives. Along with hand sanitisers, masks are currently one of the most sought-after items.

With the onslaught of coronavirus induced panic buying along with global air pollution, face masks have become an inseparable part of our lives. Along with hand sanitisers, masks are currently one of the most sought-after items. Everyone across the world is sporting a mask right now, ranging from offices to public spaces to modes of public transport. Masks are no longer just protective gear, they’re also a fashion statement and a political tool. To understand how face masks gained such a strong symbolic identity, we need to understand its history. Almost two centuries ago in 1897, the face mask made its debut in Paris. French surgeon Paul Berger wore it while performing a surgery. Also read: Coronavirus versus the internet: Who will win? In 1910, the mask made its way to China, and soon became a symbol of medical modernity. As the Pneumonic Plague hit the globe, the mask was seen as the primary preventive measure. Later, with the advent of the Spanish Flu, the masks became a global phenomenon. By 1918, everyone was trying to get hold of a surgical mask to protect themselves. In the years following World War I, masks became a symbol of caring for the community. In China, they featured in the Communist Party's health campaigns. In 2002, the world was hit with yet another epidemic, this time it was called SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). The demand for masks rose across Hong Kong, South East Asia and East Asia. People were advised to wear a mask, and not to sneeze on others. As times changed, so did the role of the face masks. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: NASA suspends work on Moon rocket In 2014, the surgical masks walked the runway in the China Fashion Week. In 2015, designer Mash Ma brought it to the ramps of Paris. This time, it was studded with Swarovskis. Soon, rappers were seen wearing masks. For Ayleo and Mateo Bowles, it became a shield against those making fun of their facial expressions. Masks and 2019 During the Hong kong protests, masks were a sign of unity, of exercising political dissent, of defiance, of anonymity, and most importantly - of revolution! When pollution cast its spell on the Indian capital city, New Delhi, masks became a symbol of one’s struggle for survival. Also read: Can the duration of COVID-19 treatment be minimised by using a combination of drugs? When Australia was burning, masks assumed the role of harbingers of climate crisis. From an air filter, to an Instagram prop, and an emblem of our fight against another pandemic, the surgical masks have come a long way. Today, they come in different colours, shapes and styles. They can be found in the pharmacies and also at designer stores. Masks are a modern day shield against 21st century battles, be it climate change, autocracy, or pandemics.

The face mask: More than protective gear!

China's auto leading automaking&nbsp;company BYD has claimed that it operates the world's largest mask-making factory less than a month after starting production in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

''BYD has created the world's largest mass-produced face masks plant. The plant is now running at full capacity and is able to produce 5 million masks and 300,000 bottles of disinfectants per day,'' the company said in a press release.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-new-gold-thieves-steal-thousands-of-surgical-masks-from-hospital-in-japan-281426">'The new gold': Thieves steal thousands of surgical masks from hospital in Japan</a>

The Shenzhen based Chinese company is further expanding its capacity.

It rallied more than 3,000 engineers and other employees to make protective equipment and meet the surge in global demand for face masks after the coronavirus outbreak.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-political-rivals-are-wooing-voters-with-free-face-masks-286757">Hong Kong political rivals are wooing voters with free face masks</a>

It started to manufacture face masks from February 8, 2020.

The company is backed by American businessman Warren Buffet and Samsung Electronics as major investors and also makes batteries for electric vehicles.

In February, Apple's major supplier Foxconn also diverted part of its production line to make medical masks.

China is the world biggest mask producer and the COVID-19 outbreak has further catapulted the demand for masks, along with hand sanitizer.&nbsp;

China's auto leading automaking company BYD has claimed that it operates the world's largest mask-making factory less than a month after starting production in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

China's auto leading automaking company BYD has claimed that it operates the world's largest mask-making factory less than a month after starting production in response to the coronavirus pandemic. ''BYD has created the world's largest mass-produced face masks plant. The plant is now running at full capacity and is able to produce 5 million masks and 300,000 bottles of disinfectants per day,'' the company said in a press release. Also read: 'The new gold': Thieves steal thousands of surgical masks from hospital in Japan The Shenzhen based Chinese company is further expanding its capacity. It rallied more than 3,000 engineers and other employees to make protective equipment and meet the surge in global demand for face masks after the coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Hong Kong political rivals are wooing voters with free face masks It started to manufacture face masks from February 8, 2020. The company is backed by American businessman Warren Buffet and Samsung Electronics as major investors and also makes batteries for electric vehicles. In February, Apple's major supplier Foxconn also diverted part of its production line to make medical masks. China is the world biggest mask producer and the COVID-19 outbreak has further catapulted the demand for masks, along with hand sanitizer.

Chinese electronic vehicle manufacturer BYD becomes world's biggest face mask maker

In order to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, the Home department of Nagaland has mandated the use of face masks and hand sanitisers in all the public places.

The department had directed all the Deputy Commissioners to issue notices ensuring adherence to all preventive measures.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/incessant-rains-trigger-floods-in-nagaland-claim-2-lives-258523">Incessant rains trigger floods in Nagaland, claim 2 lives</a>

As per the precautionary measures advised by the Home department, people should use masks and hand sanitisers in all public places, people who are in contact with large numbers of people must wear masks, and all establishments must keep hand sanitizer for both personal and public use.

Further, a phone line to receive complaints from the public regarding higher prices of mask/hand sanitiser to be activated and widely publicised immediately.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nagaland-floods-pm-modi-takes-stock-of-situation-162946">Nagaland floods: PM Modi takes stock of situation</a>

In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, governments of various Indian states have taken several steps in an attempt to contain the deadly virus.

Till date, India has reported two deaths and 82 confirmed cases of the deadly coronavirus.

&nbsp;

In order to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, the Home department of Nagaland has mandated the use of face masks and hand sanitisers in all the public places.

In order to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, the Home department of Nagaland has mandated the use of face masks and hand sanitisers in all the public places. The department had directed all the Deputy Commissioners to issue notices ensuring adherence to all preventive measures. Also Read: Incessant rains trigger floods in Nagaland, claim 2 lives As per the precautionary measures advised by the Home department, people should use masks and hand sanitisers in all public places, people who are in contact with large numbers of people must wear masks, and all establishments must keep hand sanitizer for both personal and public use. Further, a phone line to receive complaints from the public regarding higher prices of mask/hand sanitiser to be activated and widely publicised immediately. Also Read: Nagaland floods: PM Modi takes stock of situation In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, governments of various Indian states have taken several steps in an attempt to contain the deadly virus. Till date, India has reported two deaths and 82 confirmed cases of the deadly coronavirus.

Use of face mask, hand sanitiser made compulsory in Nagaland

Indian Pharmacy retailers are sceptical of the surgical mask and especially the lack of N95 respirators in the country even after the coronavirus epidemic.

India faces spike in demand of face masks, sanitizers amid Coronavirus outbreak around the world

Amid the deadly coronavirus outbreak, in most parts of the world manufacturers are struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers.&nbsp;

According to reports, the demand for hand sanitizers and protective masks has gone through the roof in Indian metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that the total market for masks alone has doubled than the last year.&nbsp;

Online portals are also experiencing a surge in demand for N95 masks. Recently, as per a report, Kerala's surgical stores ran out of N95 protective masks.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/theres-no-evidence-new-coronavirus-spreads-through-the-air-but-its-still-possible-280700">There’s no evidence new coronavirus spreads through the air – but it’s still possible</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-demand-for-face-masks-surges-in-india-280740/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

All Food and Drug License Holders Foundation has estimated a nearly 100 per cent jump in the face mask market in the country. The foundation represents 7,000 pharmaceutical suppliers from across the country.&nbsp;

As per the estimates, the demand for protective face masks in the country has shot up from 0.6 to 0.7 million masks to 1 to 1.2 million masks in a month.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-death-toll-in-china-rises-to-1483-wion-news-world-news-280606/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In Bengaluru, people are buying masks to prevent being infected though no positive cases of coronavirus infection have been reported in the city so far.

Nandani, a resident said, "We want to protect ourselves. Since it is a flu season, people get affected by viruses very easily. It is better to stay safe."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-gaming-industry-zooms-to-new-high-as-coronavirus-spreads-in-china-280635">Video games - Only industry that is booming at the time of coronavirus</a>

Confirming the increase in sales of the mask, a chemist owner Sangmesh, said, "We are selling masks daily. People are asking for N95 mask but we are out if stock so they are buying a normal mask."

Cities like Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Jaipur are also experiencing a spike in the demand for masks, hand sanitizers and soaps.&nbsp;

India had banned the export of personal protection equipment such as masks and clothing amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Later this month, New Delhi allowed the export of gloves, disposable masks, surgical mask barring personal protection equipment such as N95 masks.&nbsp;

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

&nbsp;

Amid the deadly coronavirus outbreak, in most parts of the world manufacturers are struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers.

Amid the deadly coronavirus outbreak, in most parts of the world manufacturers are struggling to meet the burgeoning demand for protective masks and hand sanitizers. According to reports, the demand for hand sanitizers and protective masks has gone through the roof in Indian metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru. Reports suggest that the total market for masks alone has doubled than the last year. Online portals are also experiencing a surge in demand for N95 masks. Recently, as per a report, Kerala's surgical stores ran out of N95 protective masks. Also read: There’s no evidence new coronavirus spreads through the air – but it’s still possible × All Food and Drug License Holders Foundation has estimated a nearly 100 per cent jump in the face mask market in the country. The foundation represents 7,000 pharmaceutical suppliers from across the country. As per the estimates, the demand for protective face masks in the country has shot up from 0.6 to 0.7 million masks to 1 to 1.2 million masks in a month. × In Bengaluru, people are buying masks to prevent being infected though no positive cases of coronavirus infection have been reported in the city so far. Nandani, a resident said, "We want to protect ourselves. Since it is a flu season, people get affected by viruses very easily. It is better to stay safe." Also read: Video games - Only industry that is booming at the time of coronavirus Confirming the increase in sales of the mask, a chemist owner Sangmesh, said, "We are selling masks daily. People are asking for N95 mask but we are out if stock so they are buying a normal mask." Cities like Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Jaipur are also experiencing a spike in the demand for masks, hand sanitizers and soaps. India had banned the export of personal protection equipment such as masks and clothing amid the coronavirus outbreak. Later this month, New Delhi allowed the export of gloves, disposable masks, surgical mask barring personal protection equipment such as N95 masks. China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

Coronavirus outbreak: Indian cities face surge in demand for face masks, hand sanitizers

People are turning to face masks to protect themselves from the coronavirus. But, Pharmacies are running out of them. From Hong Kong, to Manila and even Bangkok - countries affected by the Wuhan virus are running short of face masks.

Gravitas: Wuhan virus triggers a shortage of face masks

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Friday, October 4 invoked colonial-era emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years in a dramatic move intended to quell escalating violence in the Chinese-ruled city. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong govt outlaws face masks at protests

WION Dispatch: Carrie Lam imposes emergency measures

face-mask

Face Mask, News on Face Mask, stories on Face Mask, articles on Face Mask, Face Mask stories at Wion, Face Mask news, Face Mask latest news