[badpun]

Yep, looks like the WHO chose to manipulate the public into not using the masks so that enough is available for health-care professionals. It had a positive short-term impact, but also damaged their reputation and trustworthiness, which is very bad.

[chatmasta]

Wait, really? As in, the WHO followed an intentional strategy of misleading the public, akin to a real life trolley problem? I'd be interested in reading more about this if there are sources.