WHO warns of global shortage of face masks and protective suits

Fight against coronavirus being hampered by stockpiling of equipment, says body's chief

The fight against the coronavirus epidemic is being hampered by serious global shortages of face masks and protective suits, according to the World Health Organization's director general, who said there was "widespread inappropriate use" by those not on the frontline caring for patients.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on countries not to stockpile the protective suits that are badly needed in Chinese hospitals and praised companies who had taken the decision to supply surgical masks only to medical professionals.