Governments and aid organizations worldwide are struggling to acquire scarce medical supplies and protective equipment. The surge in demand has caused governments to compete with one another for access to critical supplies. The United States has been criticized for outbidding buyers and diverting shipments of medical equipment that were originally intended for France and Germany. Washington has denied the allegations. Demand for masks in the United States soared after the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that Americans cover their faces while in public. As of April 6, 2020, the United States has this highest number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases by far, followed by Spain, Italy, and Germany.
US President has also invoked the Defense Production Act, blocking the US-based manufacturer 3M from exporting masks to Canada and Latin America. Critics of the decision, including 3M CEO Mike Roman, warn that the move could have serious humanitarian implications.
India, which is at high risk of becoming a future epicenter of the virus, is restricting exports of coronavirus test kits, masks, ventilators, protective gear, and some critical pharmaceuticals. This includes the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, which is being tested as a possible treatment for patients with COVID-19.
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