As fears mount over the Coronavirus outbreak, Prestige Ameritech, the leading manufacturer of surgical masks in the U.S., says it will no longer accept orders of its masks from individuals.
The Dallas Morning News reported Thursday the company is focusing on supplying masks to its hospital clients in the U.S.
"If you are looking to place a one-time high volume order of masks or respirators we cannot help you," a recording on the company phone line said. "We are working hard to serve only U.S. hospital customers through the coronavirus crisis."
Mike Bowen, an executive vice president for the company, said it has been overwhelmed by the amount of orders.
"It's a madhouse," he told CBS News.
He said phone calls asking about the masks used to be rare. However, the company is now fielding about 100 calls a day.
Yahoo Finance reported simple surgical masks will not prevent people from catching the virus. However, it is recommended those already infected should wear the masks.
Jeffrey Rodack ✉
Jeffrey Rodack, who has nearly a half century in news as a senior editor and city editor for national and local publications, has covered politics for Newsmax for nearly seven years.
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