https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-53672841What is going on here? 50 million masks bought by the Government in April are not fit for purpose for use by NHS staff. The waste of taxpayers money is bad enough, but worse, is that lives will have been put at risk and lost due to the error.
Its to do with so-called FF2P masks used by medical and front line staff. The ones they bought have ear loops which don't fit tightly enough, and so are not efficient in stopping tiny virus aerosoles. The ones with elastic straps around the head give better protection.
Apparently the company supplying them, Ayanda Capital, is listed as a private equity company with no experience in selling medical equipment. In response, the Government spokesmen are giving the usual meaningless lawyerspeak comments.
On a personal note, if you can get hold of some FF2P masks with proper straps around your head, they cost a bit more, but at least they give you decent protection. Basic face coverings only protect you from large spittle droplets, like when someone sneezes.