Mask Shortage Leads to 'Kitchen Towel Masks' Emerging in Jeju

"New Coronavirus Transmitted Through Droplets"
"Wearing a Homemade Mask Is Better Than Not Wearing One at All"

Disposable mask made by Jeju Island using paper towels (kitchen towels). Photo by Jeju Island

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suwan] Amid the shortage of masks caused by the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia), a private volunteer group in Jeju Island announced that they will produce masks themselves and supply them to the residents, drawing public attention.

On the 5th, Jeju Island announced that, together with the Saemaeul Women's Association and the Volunteer Center, they plan to produce 100,000 disposable masks using paper towels (kitchen towels) and distribute them to residents through eup, myeon, and dong community centers.

The masks were made by connecting two rubber bands to a paper towel. Additionally, washable paper towels that are not easily torn were used.

Jeju Island plans to distribute leaflets on how to make disposable masks so that residents can produce and use them themselves.

A Jeju Island official said, "Based on the opinions of health authorities, the novel coronavirus is transmitted not through airborne transmission but through droplets (saliva droplets)," adding, "Self-made masks are less effective than medical masks, but in a situation where it is difficult to obtain masks, it is better to wear them than not to wear any."

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