Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Mar 6: The scare of Coronavirus is increasing day by day in the state of Karnataka. The companies, manufacturing face masks, are reportedly trying to take undue advantage of the situation. The price of mask has shot up by Rs 100.

In the medical shops of the city, stock of single layer masks is over. The medical personnel are saying that there is no supply from the manufacturers also. Only T95 and triple layer masks are available in the medical shops of the city. The prices of these masks have shot up in the last two days.

T95 mask which was available for Rs 150 is being sold at the rate of Rs 270. Triple layer mask which was costing Rs 70 is available now for Rs 150. Hand sanitizers are in high demand and the medical shops have run out of stock.

One of the customers in a medical shop said, "I have bought four triple layer masks. If we do not by owing to hike in prices, it will be difficult in coming days, when the need of mask may arise."

Responding to the situation District Health Officer (DHO) has said that prices of masks cannot be hiked when there is an emergency situation in the state. He also promised strict action in case of such instances.