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4 March 2014
Question No. 1814
Name of Person: Mr Yee Jenn Jong, Non-Constituency MP
Question
To ask the Minister for Health (a) what is the current stock of N95 masks in Singapore; (b) what is the distribution plan for N95 masks to the public in the event of an escalation of the haze situation; and (c) how will masks be distributed to the needy and if there will be any change to the criteria used to determine who can qualify for free masks.
Answer
1 The public is advised to follow the recommendations in the health advisories issued by Ministry of Health from time to time during a haze situation. N95 masks are generally not needed for short exposure, such as commuting from home to school or work. They are also not needed in an indoor environment.
2 Nevertheless, N95 masks are currently available at major retail outlets. When needed, we would release our stock to the major retailers to meet public demand. We have also worked with the People’s Association on plans to distribute the N95 masks to the needy through grassroots organizations. The criteria for the distribution of masks will be reviewed together with the relevant ministries.