With protective masks having become a part of daily accessory, now masks made of precious metals such as gold and silver are gaining popularity. “Why not use a mask as an ornament for now? Later, you could get it melted into and still obtain the same value or get other jewelry made,” says Radhakrishnan, the owner of RK Jewel Works in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

A traditional goldsmith, Radhakrishnan has worked in various functions in the jewelry-making field for over 35 years. It was about three years back that he started making and selling clothes made of Gold. Yes, you read that right!. Most of these were made to order for special occasions, for adorning deities, for children on their birthdays etc.&nbsp;

The experience gained over the years in making clothes out of precious metals is what led to the thought of making masks that are made of precious metals.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-man-wears-gold-face-mask-to-ward-off-coronavirus-310734">Also read:&nbsp;Indian man wears gold face mask to ward off coronavirus</a>

“We can make them in 18K, 22K hallmark certified gold and the purity is guaranteed. When it comes to silver we can make it only in 92.5 sterling silver. The metal weight would be about 50gms and the cloth part of the mask would weigh 6gms or so. Silver options are priced at $200 (INR 15,000) and upwards whereas the gold version start at $3,668 (INR 2,75,000),” the shop owner says.&nbsp;

Despite owning the shop, he claims to have kept his form of work closely guarded. Ninety per cent of the process is said to be handwork and he makes these precious items himself, often taking help from those in his family. From start to finish, it takes about seven days of intricate work to get these shining masks ready.&nbsp;

“We draw gold wires that are 0.06mm in thickness and this is the only machine work. After getting these fine and flexible wires, we use them for knitting and weaving. We have received orders from Bengaluru, Hyderabad and several places up north. But the farther the distance, people refuse to buy due to the issues involved in logistics. So far there are nine confirmed orders and we receive a lot of enquiries on a daily basis,” Radhakrishnan Sundaram Acharya, the shopowner and goldsmith told WION.

When asked about how it would feel to wear one for long hours, re-use it, besides the protection it offers, he says that his masks have a cloth-like feel. “The portion on top is made of metal and inside it we have the multiple layers of cloth material which are used in mask-making. It can be washed and re-used, but twisting it for any reason it is a strict no. If required later on, one can even get a goldsmith to replace the cloth material with a new one for the sake of better protection” he says.&nbsp;

It’s just been a little over a week since the gold and Silver masks were introduced, but Radhakrishnan is overwhelmed with the response as a few customers are preferring them as gifting options and even jewelry. In case one prefers more personalisation and customization, they even offer to engrave names.&nbsp;

With protective masks having become a part of daily accessory, now masks made of precious metals such as gold and silver are gaining popularity. “Why not use a mask as an ornament for now?

With protective masks having become a part of daily accessory, now masks made of precious metals such as gold and silver are gaining popularity. “Why not use a mask as an ornament for now? Later, you could get it melted into and still obtain the same value or get other jewelry made,” says Radhakrishnan, the owner of RK Jewel Works in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. A traditional goldsmith, Radhakrishnan has worked in various functions in the jewelry-making field for over 35 years. It was about three years back that he started making and selling clothes made of Gold. Yes, you read that right!. Most of these were made to order for special occasions, for adorning deities, for children on their birthdays etc. The experience gained over the years in making clothes out of precious metals is what led to the thought of making masks that are made of precious metals. Also read: Indian man wears gold face mask to ward off coronavirus “We can make them in 18K, 22K hallmark certified gold and the purity is guaranteed. When it comes to silver we can make it only in 92.5 sterling silver. The metal weight would be about 50gms and the cloth part of the mask would weigh 6gms or so. Silver options are priced at $200 (INR 15,000) and upwards whereas the gold version start at $3,668 (INR 2,75,000),” the shop owner says. Despite owning the shop, he claims to have kept his form of work closely guarded. Ninety per cent of the process is said to be handwork and he makes these precious items himself, often taking help from those in his family. From start to finish, it takes about seven days of intricate work to get these shining masks ready. “We draw gold wires that are 0.06mm in thickness and this is the only machine work. After getting these fine and flexible wires, we use them for knitting and weaving. We have received orders from Bengaluru, Hyderabad and several places up north. But the farther the distance, people refuse to buy due to the issues involved in logistics. So far there are nine confirmed orders and we receive a lot of enquiries on a daily basis,” Radhakrishnan Sundaram Acharya, the shopowner and goldsmith told WION. When asked about how it would feel to wear one for long hours, re-use it, besides the protection it offers, he says that his masks have a cloth-like feel. “The portion on top is made of metal and inside it we have the multiple layers of cloth material which are used in mask-making. It can be washed and re-used, but twisting it for any reason it is a strict no. If required later on, one can even get a goldsmith to replace the cloth material with a new one for the sake of better protection” he says. It’s just been a little over a week since the gold and Silver masks were introduced, but Radhakrishnan is overwhelmed with the response as a few customers are preferring them as gifting options and even jewelry. In case one prefers more personalisation and customization, they even offer to engrave names.

Coimbatore: Masks made of gold and silver on sale see high demand

Amid rising number of coronavirus cases and lack of a possible COVID vaccine, France has decided to increase the precautions against the deadly virus.

France, on Thursday, announced that soon wearing face mask will be compulsory in enclosed public spaces (indoors spaces) too, in addition to the existing rule of wearing mask in outdoor public spaces.

The new rule will be implemented from August 1 all over the country, President Emmanuel Macron said. Mayenne region, however,&nbsp;made it obligatory immediately in several places.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wearing-masks-can-cut-down-coronavirus-infection-risk-by-65-313450">Also read:&nbsp;Wearing masks can cut down coronavirus infection risk by 65%</a>

The rule is being imposed after French health experts said that the coronavirus was&nbsp;"coming back a bit".

"We were considering implementing (this measure) on August 1 because, once again, we are acting preventively and not as a matter of emergency", Prime Minister Jean Castex told the Senate.

"I have heard and understood that this deadline appeared late or raised some questions, so the decree will come into force next week."

The novel coronavirus, that earlier slowed down in the country, has taken over 30,000 people in France and has been increasing in the past few weeks.&nbsp;

In addition to this, Macron also proposed open COVID testing for all, without any doctors' prescriptions.

Amid rising number of coronavirus cases and lack of a possible COVID vaccine, France has decided to increase the precautions against the deadly virus. France, on Thursday, announced that soon wearing face mask will be compulsory in enclosed public spaces (indoors spaces) too, in addition to the existing rule of wearing mask in outdoor public spaces.

Amid rising number of coronavirus cases and lack of a possible COVID vaccine, France has decided to increase the precautions against the deadly virus. France, on Thursday, announced that soon wearing face mask will be compulsory in enclosed public spaces (indoors spaces) too, in addition to the existing rule of wearing mask in outdoor public spaces. The new rule will be implemented from August 1 all over the country, President Emmanuel Macron said. Mayenne region, however, made it obligatory immediately in several places. Also read: Wearing masks can cut down coronavirus infection risk by 65% The rule is being imposed after French health experts said that the coronavirus was "coming back a bit". "We were considering implementing (this measure) on August 1 because, once again, we are acting preventively and not as a matter of emergency", Prime Minister Jean Castex told the Senate. "I have heard and understood that this deadline appeared late or raised some questions, so the decree will come into force next week." The novel coronavirus, that earlier slowed down in the country, has taken over 30,000 people in France and has been increasing in the past few weeks. In addition to this, Macron also proposed open COVID testing for all, without any doctors' prescriptions.

France makes wearing face masks indoors compulsory

First family of the US, the Trump family, has been the most famous family in the world to resist face masks during the ongoing pandemic, despite repeated warnings by health experts. However, Donald Trump was spotted in a mask for the first time yesterday while visiting a military hospital.&nbsp;

Soon after, First Lady of the US, Melania Trump, too, posted a video in which she was finally seen wearing a face mask.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-spotted-wearing-a-mask-for-the-first-time-in-public-312624">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump spotted wearing a mask for the first time in public</a>

Melania Trump posted a video from her visit to The Mary Elizabeth House, in which she was spotted wearing a white mask.

"It was a pleasure to spend time with the staff, mothers &amp; children at The Mary Elizabeth House, a place that helps strengthen families &amp; provides life skills, counselling and educational resources to help vulnerable single women &amp; their children. #BeBest," she tweeted.

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It was a pleasure to spend time with the staff, mothers &amp; children at The Mary Elizabeth House, a place that helps strengthen families &amp; provides life skills, counseling &amp; educational resources to help vulnerable single women &amp; their children. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeBest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeBest</a> <a href="https://t.co/hQSjP0sHi1">pic.twitter.com/hQSjP0sHi1</a>
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS/status/1282313659272790016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Trumps are now being spotted in mask due to the advice from their political aides, experts believe. The sight of so many maskless people during the election campaigns and rallies of Trump and the heavy criticism faced by Trump over roaming mask-less in the country amid a surge of coronavirus cases, forced the Trump family to finally don face masks in order to avoid taking a hit because of this reason in the upcoming elections.

The US is one of the worst affected countries worldwide by coronavirus. On Sunday, the country reported over 61,000 cases, a third straight daily rise. As of Sunday, over 3.2 million infections were recorded with more than 134,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

First family of the US, the Trump family, has been the most famous family in the world to resist face masks during the ongoing pandemic, despite repeated warnings by health experts.

First family of the US, the Trump family, has been the most famous family in the world to resist face masks during the ongoing pandemic, despite repeated warnings by health experts. However, Donald Trump was spotted in a mask for the first time yesterday while visiting a military hospital. Soon after, First Lady of the US, Melania Trump, too, posted a video in which she was finally seen wearing a face mask. Also read: Donald Trump spotted wearing a mask for the first time in public Melania Trump posted a video from her visit to The Mary Elizabeth House, in which she was spotted wearing a white mask. "It was a pleasure to spend time with the staff, mothers & children at The Mary Elizabeth House, a place that helps strengthen families & provides life skills, counselling and educational resources to help vulnerable single women & their children. #BeBest," she tweeted. It was a pleasure to spend time with the staff, mothers & children at The Mary Elizabeth House, a place that helps strengthen families & provides life skills, counseling & educational resources to help vulnerable single women & their children. #BeBest pic.twitter.com/hQSjP0sHi1 — Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) July 12, 2020 × The Trumps are now being spotted in mask due to the advice from their political aides, experts believe. The sight of so many maskless people during the election campaigns and rallies of Trump and the heavy criticism faced by Trump over roaming mask-less in the country amid a surge of coronavirus cases, forced the Trump family to finally don face masks in order to avoid taking a hit because of this reason in the upcoming elections. The US is one of the worst affected countries worldwide by coronavirus. On Sunday, the country reported over 61,000 cases, a third straight daily rise. As of Sunday, over 3.2 million infections were recorded with more than 134,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

After Donald Trump, Melania Trump now spotted wearing a face mask

Mask-less: Political leaders around the world who 'forgot' to wear mask

The US President Donald Trump has been playing a game of hide and seek with the media when it comes to wearing a face mask when he steps outdoors. Trump has rarely been spotted with a face mask in public. However, proving to be unpredictable again, he was spotted with a face mask on Saturday.

Trump visited Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, a military medical facility outside Washington. The purpose of the visit was to&nbsp;meet with wounded soldiers and frontline health-care workers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-expects-to-wear-a-mask-when-he-visits-military-hospital-312144">Also read:&nbsp;Trump 'expects' to wear a mask when he visits military hospital</a>

This was the first time he was spotted wearing a mask in the public, especially infront of the media. Trump has earlier claimed that during one of the visits to a factory he did wear a face mask where it was necessary but he did not want to give the media the satisfaction of seeing him donning a face mask, and therefore removed it moments before appearing infront of the cameras.

This time, however, things were different. Trump, now, feels that there is a right time and place to do everything and an army medical facility was the right place to wear a mask, so he did.

“I think when you are in a hospital, especially in that particular setting when you are talking to a lot of soldiers, people that in some cases just got off the operating table, I think it’s a great thing to wear a mask,” Trump told reporters at the White House before leaving for his visit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-trump-says-will-wear-mask-if-in-tight-situation-with-people-310065">Also read:&nbsp;Now, Trump says will wear mask 'if in tight situation with people'</a>

While some locals are thanking the 'superior power' for finally putting the right thought in Trump's mind, some are calling it a trial for redemption&nbsp;to gather few more votes in the upcoming general elections.

Trump did not talk much to the media at the army facility, and just said 'thank you' as he passed the cameras wearing a navy blue coloured face mask with a&nbsp;presidential seal embossed in gold.

Coronavirus cases have been on a constant rise in the country. World Health Organization (WHO) reported&nbsp;132,683 new positive cases in the US in the past 24 hours. Health experts are urging lawmakers to not reopen the economy, and they are also requesting locals to wear face masks and maintain social distance while out in public.

The US President Donald Trump has been playing a game of hide and seek with the media when it comes to wearing a face mask when he steps outdoors. Trump has rarely been spotted with a face mask in public.

The US President Donald Trump has been playing a game of hide and seek with the media when it comes to wearing a face mask when he steps outdoors. Trump has rarely been spotted with a face mask in public. However, proving to be unpredictable again, he was spotted with a face mask on Saturday. Trump visited Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, a military medical facility outside Washington. The purpose of the visit was to meet with wounded soldiers and frontline health-care workers. Also read: Trump 'expects' to wear a mask when he visits military hospital This was the first time he was spotted wearing a mask in the public, especially infront of the media. Trump has earlier claimed that during one of the visits to a factory he did wear a face mask where it was necessary but he did not want to give the media the satisfaction of seeing him donning a face mask, and therefore removed it moments before appearing infront of the cameras. This time, however, things were different. Trump, now, feels that there is a right time and place to do everything and an army medical facility was the right place to wear a mask, so he did. “I think when you are in a hospital, especially in that particular setting when you are talking to a lot of soldiers, people that in some cases just got off the operating table, I think it’s a great thing to wear a mask,” Trump told reporters at the White House before leaving for his visit. Also read: Now, Trump says will wear mask 'if in tight situation with people' While some locals are thanking the 'superior power' for finally putting the right thought in Trump's mind, some are calling it a trial for redemption to gather few more votes in the upcoming general elections. Trump did not talk much to the media at the army facility, and just said 'thank you' as he passed the cameras wearing a navy blue coloured face mask with a presidential seal embossed in gold. Coronavirus cases have been on a constant rise in the country. World Health Organization (WHO) reported 132,683 new positive cases in the US in the past 24 hours. Health experts are urging lawmakers to not reopen the economy, and they are also requesting locals to wear face masks and maintain social distance while out in public.

Donald Trump spotted wearing a mask for the first time in public

Post-coronavirus, everyone is being urged to wear face masks when stepping out in public to avoid spread of the novel coronavirus. Majority shops, cafes and restaurants are also urging customers to wear masks before entering the stores.

A Starbucks barista,&nbsp;Lenin Gutierrez, followed the same protocol during his shift at the Genesee Avenue, San Diego branch. He asked a customer to wear a face mask before purchasing her coffee. The customer,&nbsp;Amber Lynn Gilles, did not take the advice in good spirit and lashed out at him before he could even show her the company guidelines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starbucks-pauses-social-media-ads-to-fight-against-hate-speech-309238">Also read|&nbsp;Starbucks pauses social media ads to fight against 'hate speech'</a>

She further decided to click his picture, without his consent, and posted it on her Facebook page.

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Meet lenen from Starbucks who refused to serve me cause I’m not wearing a mask. Next time I will wait for cops and bring a medical exemption.
Posted by <a href="#" role="button">Amber Lynn Gilles</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://developers.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10157012081506949&amp;id=601056948">Monday, June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This post created a stir on Facebook as people came in support of Lenin. People created memes and sent factual information to Amber&nbsp;to show support with Lenin.

Some people even commented that they wish they could visit the Starbucks branch to appreciate Lenin through tips. This led to a GoFundMe page by a commentor Matt Cowan. The 26-year-old felt Lenin, whom he did not know personally, was being bullied for doing the right thing, and therefore he thought of helping Lenin through whatever way possible.

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I’ve received numerous messages asking for my side of the story. Since this seems to be the most popular thread I decided to post my personal experience here. Thank you all for the love and support.
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lenin.gutierrez.77">Lenin Gutierrez</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://developers.facebook.com/lenin.gutierrez.77/posts/3623979667616620">Wednesday, June 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The GoFundMe page titled&nbsp;"Tips for Lenin Standing Up To A San Diego Karen," became a huge hit in no time as it gave everyone a chance to send online/virtual tips to Lenin and show support. Matt, initially set up the goal amount to&nbsp;$1,000. However, Lenin has now received nearly&nbsp;$80,000 as virtual tip through this page.

Lenin, later, expalined his side of the story in a Facebook video, in which he explained the whole interaction he had with Amber and how she "flipped" him off. He also admitted that he did not intercept that she would post on Facebook and it would become such a big issue.

Lenin now hopes to help those in need and fulfill his passion of becoming a dancer with this donation.

Post-coronavirus, everyone is being urged to wear face masks when stepping out in public to avoid spread of the novel coronavirus. Majority shops, cafes and restaurants are also urging customers to wear masks before entering the stores.

Post-coronavirus, everyone is being urged to wear face masks when stepping out in public to avoid spread of the novel coronavirus. Majority shops, cafes and restaurants are also urging customers to wear masks before entering the stores. A Starbucks barista, Lenin Gutierrez, followed the same protocol during his shift at the Genesee Avenue, San Diego branch. He asked a customer to wear a face mask before purchasing her coffee. The customer, Amber Lynn Gilles, did not take the advice in good spirit and lashed out at him before he could even show her the company guidelines. Also read| Starbucks pauses social media ads to fight against 'hate speech' She further decided to click his picture, without his consent, and posted it on her Facebook page. div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10157012081506949&id=601056948" data-show-text="true" data-width=""> Meet lenen from Starbucks who refused to serve me cause I’m not wearing a mask. Next time I will wait for cops and bring a medical exemption. Posted by Amber Lynn Gilles on Monday, June 22, 2020 × This post created a stir on Facebook as people came in support of Lenin. People created memes and sent factual information to Amber to show support with Lenin. Some people even commented that they wish they could visit the Starbucks branch to appreciate Lenin through tips. This led to a GoFundMe page by a commentor Matt Cowan. The 26-year-old felt Lenin, whom he did not know personally, was being bullied for doing the right thing, and therefore he thought of helping Lenin through whatever way possible. I’ve received numerous messages asking for my side of the story. Since this seems to be the most popular thread I decided to post my personal experience here. Thank you all for the love and support. Posted by Lenin Gutierrez on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 × The GoFundMe page titled "Tips for Lenin Standing Up To A San Diego Karen," became a huge hit in no time as it gave everyone a chance to send online/virtual tips to Lenin and show support. Matt, initially set up the goal amount to $1,000. However, Lenin has now received nearly $80,000 as virtual tip through this page. Lenin, later, expalined his side of the story in a Facebook video, in which he explained the whole interaction he had with Amber and how she "flipped" him off. He also admitted that he did not intercept that she would post on Facebook and it would become such a big issue. Lenin now hopes to help those in need and fulfill his passion of becoming a dancer with this donation.

US: Starbucks barista gets $80,000 tip money for refusing service to customer without mask

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

As Belgium obliges people to wear face masks on public transport and recommends them elsewhere to limit the spread of the coronavirus, deaf people are calling for transparent masks to allow them to communicate with others.

Deaf Belgians demand transparent masks for lip-reading during coronavirus

Members of the Satere Mawe indigenous community living in Manaus in Brazil's Amazon found their livelihoods - the production and sale of handicrafts - halted by government measures meant to stop the spread of the new coronavirus.

Indigenous women make face masks instead of crafts

Tidalwave Productions has added "Tiger King" to its Infamous series after the film became a world-wide phenomena with even U.S. president Trump talking about it during a press conference.

Netflix film 'Tiger King' gets the comic book treatment

Statues around monuments in the cities of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Buenos Aires, Argentina have been covered with face masks to raise awareness among the pouplation, as the countries battle the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Face masks placed on statues in Rio and Buenos Aires to raise awareness amid pandemic

A 12-year-old Mexican boy is doing his bit to help with reported shortages of masks and visors brought on by the coronavirus pandemic by making his own to give to medics.

Mexican boy, 12, donates visors he creates on 3D printer to doctors

Researchers in Belgium have used 3D printing to develop plastic devices that can convert snorkel masks into medical face guards, to help stretched hospitals as they battle the coronavirus outbreak.

Belgians turn snorkelling masks into coronavirus face guards for medical staff

A Chilean company is promoting a reusable copper mask that can be manufactured in 3D printers they say will help alleviate the deficit of face masks in demand over the spread of the coronavirus.

Chileans make reusable copper masks to face coronavirus

Moscow's central shopping mall "TSUM" provided employees with stylish masks with a transparent protective screen, so the boutique shop assistants stay protected while looking stylish.

Luxury Moscow store issues employees with stylish masks

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.

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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!

South Korea's president declared war on the coronavirus on Tuesday, ordering additional hospital beds and more face masks to be made available as the number of cases rose by 600 in the worst epidemic of any nation outside China.

President Moon Jae-in apologised for shortages of face masks and promised support for virus-hit small businesses in Asia's fourth-biggest economy, which has now reported 4,812 cases of the flu-like disease and 34 deaths.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-reports-813-more-coronavirus-cases-in-24-hours-total-3150-283468"> South Korea reports 813 more coronavirus cases in 24-hours, total 3,150</a>

"The entire country has entered the war against the infectious disease as the crisis in Daegu and Gyeongbuk province has reached the highest point," he told a cabinet meeting, referring to the two hardest-hit parts of the country.

"I am very sorry to the people that we are not able to supply masks swiftly and sufficiently, and have caused inconvenience."

The virus which originated in China late last year began to spread rapidly in South Korea after it entered the congregation of a fringe Christian group in Daegu city, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/coronavirus-weighs-on-south-korea-february-trade-ministry-says-worse-to-come-283540">Coronavirus weighs on South Korea February trade; ministry says worse to come</a>

Sect leader and self-proclaimed messiah Lee Man-hee tested negative for the virus on Monday, having been threatened with arrest unless he agreed to be examined.

He had earlier apologised for the sect's role in spreading the virus and called the epidemic a "great calamity".

The church and Lee personally have come under intense scrutiny and growing public anger and some politicians have reported them for prosecution.

President Moon ordered masks to be stockpiled as a strategic item so suppliers can produce them without the risk of surpluses.

People are forming long queues for masks at retail stores and online suppliers are selling out as soon as stock arrives, even though the World Health Organization says healthy people only need to wear masks if they are caring for someone who is sick.

Lee Ji-Eun, a 34-year-old doctor in Seoul, said her daily routine began with surfing the internet to try to find masks for her family.

"It is totally a lottery. I click 'buy' like crazy every morning, but I only succeeded in purchasing a few last weeks," she said.

"There aren't enough even for doctors when treating patients."

A man was caught lining up to buy a mask in Daegu after testing positive for the virus, a police official told Reuters.

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South Korea's president declared war on the coronavirus on Tuesday, ordering additional hospital beds and more face masks to be made available as the number of cases rose by 600 in the worst epidemic of any nation outside China.

South Korea's president declared war on the coronavirus on Tuesday, ordering additional hospital beds and more face masks to be made available as the number of cases rose by 600 in the worst epidemic of any nation outside China. President Moon Jae-in apologised for shortages of face masks and promised support for virus-hit small businesses in Asia's fourth-biggest economy, which has now reported 4,812 cases of the flu-like disease and 34 deaths. Also Read: South Korea reports 813 more coronavirus cases in 24-hours, total 3,150 "The entire country has entered the war against the infectious disease as the crisis in Daegu and Gyeongbuk province has reached the highest point," he told a cabinet meeting, referring to the two hardest-hit parts of the country. "I am very sorry to the people that we are not able to supply masks swiftly and sufficiently, and have caused inconvenience." The virus which originated in China late last year began to spread rapidly in South Korea after it entered the congregation of a fringe Christian group in Daegu city, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus. Also Read:Coronavirus weighs on South Korea February trade; ministry says worse to come Sect leader and self-proclaimed messiah Lee Man-hee tested negative for the virus on Monday, having been threatened with arrest unless he agreed to be examined. He had earlier apologised for the sect's role in spreading the virus and called the epidemic a "great calamity". The church and Lee personally have come under intense scrutiny and growing public anger and some politicians have reported them for prosecution. President Moon ordered masks to be stockpiled as a strategic item so suppliers can produce them without the risk of surpluses. People are forming long queues for masks at retail stores and online suppliers are selling out as soon as stock arrives, even though the World Health Organization says healthy people only need to wear masks if they are caring for someone who is sick. Lee Ji-Eun, a 34-year-old doctor in Seoul, said her daily routine began with surfing the internet to try to find masks for her family. "It is totally a lottery. I click 'buy' like crazy every morning, but I only succeeded in purchasing a few last weeks," she said. "There aren't enough even for doctors when treating patients." A man was caught lining up to buy a mask in Daegu after testing positive for the virus, a police official told Reuters.

South Korean president declares 'war' on coronavirus as sect leader tests negative

Thousands of Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters marched in the city centre on Friday ahead of reported plans by the city’s embattled leader to deploy emergency powers to ban people from wearing masks in a bid to quash four months of anti-government demonstrations.

HKG protesters rally against possible mask ban

One year after Brazil's National Museum went up in flames, management and researchers say they are recuperating 35% of the collection and beginning reconstruction of the building's facade and roof.

Brazil museum rallies to rebuild 1 year after fire

Over dozens of people in South Korea recently posted pictures of themselves in "nuke masks" featuring North Korea leader Kim Jong-Un on social media.

The pictures were later pulled down after the users received heavy backlash on local media.

Following the&nbsp;backlash, many South Korean stores also discontinued the sale of the masks.

The facial masks featuring the North Korean leader were created by 5149, a South Korean fashion and cosmetics company, and were sold for 4,000 won (£2.80), a report said.

In an interview with the New York Times, the firm's chief executive Kwak Hyeon-Ju said the masks were made to celebrate the "once in a lifetime" Korean summits held earlier this year.

The leaders of the two countries held a historic meet this year in April over denuclearisation.

The North Korea leader Kim Jong Un, in one of the historic move, crossed the southern border to hold a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-In.

The meeting which was held after over a decade aimed to turn the DMZ - long a symbol of tension and division - into a “peace zone.”

Over dozens of people in South Korea recently posted pictures of themselves in "nuke masks" featuring North Korea leader Kim Jong-Un on social media. The pictures were later pulled down after the users received heavy backlash on local media.

Over dozens of people in South Korea recently posted pictures of themselves in "nuke masks" featuring North Korea leader Kim Jong-Un on social media. The pictures were later pulled down after the users received heavy backlash on local media. Following the backlash, many South Korean stores also discontinued the sale of the masks. The facial masks featuring the North Korean leader were created by 5149, a South Korean fashion and cosmetics company, and were sold for 4,000 won (£2.80), a report said. In an interview with the New York Times, the firm's chief executive Kwak Hyeon-Ju said the masks were made to celebrate the "once in a lifetime" Korean summits held earlier this year. The leaders of the two countries held a historic meet this year in April over denuclearisation. The North Korea leader Kim Jong Un, in one of the historic move, crossed the southern border to hold a summit with South Korean President Moon Jae-In. The meeting which was held after over a decade aimed to turn the DMZ - long a symbol of tension and division - into a “peace zone.”

South Korea firm sells mask featuring North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, faces backlash

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