[coconut_crab]

But N95 masks aren't cheap and AFAIK must be disposed after one day of usage. So they must be reserved for the medical workers, while the other can use 3 or 4 layers surgical masks, which should provide adequate protection.

[TylerE]

They are pretty cheap in bulk when not in the middle of a supply crisis. Like a dollar or so each.

[coconut_crab]

Still 25 times more expensive than 3 layers surgical masks, which costs like two dollars for 50 pieces.

Oh yeah and I don't live in the US so my definition of 'expensive' can be different.

[TylerE]

Think about how many disposable gloves the average healthcare worker goes through. Dozens per shift, at least. Those are about 5 cents a pop, easily more than a dollar per day.

[rvnx]

After 3 hours only :|