Questions Raised About Free Masks Plan

Some Hong Kong residents on Sunday criticised the planned distribution of reusable masks by the government, saying it comes too late, while an NGO urged the administration to give the face masks to the vulnerable groups first.

The plan was revealed by leading microbiologist Yuen Kwok-yung, who said he was “very excited” to learn that face masks with filters that could be replaced would be given to all Hong Kong residents.

However, a woman surnamed Chan said she'd already spent between HK$2,000 and HK$3,000 on face masks that could last two months. Nevertheless, she said the measure could benefit some people, such as the elderly.

A man surnamed Ip said the supply of face masks now is relatively stable. He accused the government of being “always late”.

He added it would be better for the government to distribute disposable face masks, as people might not know how to handle reusable masks and wash them properly.

Ng Wai-tung of Society for Community Organisation urged the administration to give the face masks to the vulnerable groups first, such as the grassroots and people with underlying illnesses.

He suggested that the SAR government can learn from the Taiwanese authorities and distribute face masks via convenience stores. He also expressed hope that an estimated 2,000 homeless people here in Hong Kong could be given disposable face masks instead because they would have difficulties washing the reusable masks.

The head of the University of Hong Kong’s Centre for Infection, Ho Pak-leung, said the government should consider whether the design of the reusable masks would suit everybody. He questioned if the masks would be one size fits all.

He said that reusable face masks are okay for day-to-day use, but people should wear disposable masks if they have to go to clinics or hospitals.