DEMAND APPEARS MUTED
Despite retailers’ assurances on overall supplies, a quick check of six outlets across four retail brands in Holland Village last week found N95 masks available at only one shop, which had a single box of 20 pieces for sale at around S$42 (US$33).
At Clementi Mall, two of four retail brands stocked either N95 or KN95 masks for sale, though only a handful of boxes were visible.
The limited availability on store shelves, however, does not necessarily point to a wider supply shortage, with N95 masks still available through online channels, said experts.
Demand also appears muted for now, with some shoppers telling CNA that buying N95 masks was not yet an immediate priority.
One shopper said she still had several masks at home but was reluctant to stock up excessively after having to dispose of unused masks bought previously.
“For the current situation, I think it’s come and go,” she said, adding that her household had ordered an air purifier online as a precaution in case conditions worsen.
IMPACT OF HAZE
Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can have far-reaching implications for health, business operations and travel, said experts.
Short-term exposure to these air pollutants can trigger respiratory symptoms and worsen existing heart or lung conditions, they said. Particulate matter can also irritate the eyes, nose and throat, even in healthy individuals.
Dr David Teo, regional medical director of Asia at health and security risk management firm International SOS, told CNA’s Singapore Tonight that staying indoors during periods of haze can reduce exposure to poor air quality, but it does not eliminate the risk.
“Unless the windows and the doors are shut tight, (the polluted air) can still enter the house and cause an issue to the people working from home,” he added.