16 million N95 masks stockpiled in Singapore: report

The government has stockpiled 16 million N95 masks in Singapore, said its health ministry on Tuesday.

According to figures quoted in local media, Parliamentary Secretary for Health Faishal Ibrahim said the figure is in addition to some 280,000 masks that are already with major retailers here.

Dr Faishal reportedly revealed these figures in response to a question filed by Non-consituency Member of Parliament Yee Jenn Jong, who asked about the current stock, and distribution plans to the public and the needy, in the event of an escalation of the haze situation.

The parliamentary secretary stressed that the masks are “generally not needed for short exposure”, such as commutes from home to school or work, but they are currently available at major retail outlets.

“When needed, we would release our stock to the major retailers to meet public demand,” he said, adding that the government has also worked out plans for distribution of masks to the needy through People’s Association grassroots organisations.

“The criteria for the distribution of masks will be reviewed together with the relevant ministries,” he added.

Pharmacies in Singapore faced severe shortages of N95 masks last June, when the haze in Singapore worsened, with air quality reaching its worst-ever levels on 21 June.

Both N95 and surgical masks flew off the shelves, with many hospitals and pharmacies seeing snaking queues. Opportunistic buyers were also selling them for increased prices online.

Meanwhile, Dr Faishal was quoted on Tuesday as saying that the government “is more prepared this time” should the haze return.