US short on coronavirus facemasks, ventilators: HHS secretary
'This is an unprecedented, potential severe health challenge globally,' Azar says
By Evie Fordham FOXBusiness
The U.S. does not have enough facemasks or ventilators stockpiled to deal with threats of coronavirus spreading, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar told a Senate subcommittee on Tuesday.
Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., asked Azar if the U.S. had enough facemasks stockpiled after he said the administration was seeking additional coronavirus funding "to support the acquisition of personal protective equipment, especially masks, into the strategic national stockpile."
CORONAVIRUS PROMPTS FDA TO DETAIL SCREENING OF CHINESE-MADE PRODUCTS
"Well, of course not, or we wouldn't be asking for a supplemental to seek more money," Azar said.
"This is an unprecedented, potential severe health challenge globally and will require these additional measures," he said.
more
https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/facemask-coronavirus-transmission-respirator-azar