Custom Browser Inc., a distributor of N95 face masks reports a dramatic spike in sales in recent weeks in light of the Avian Flu news. The firm, which usually sells a few cases a month of the popular 3M 9211, 3M 9210, 3M 8233 N100, 3M 1860, 3M 1870 and 3M 8210 masks, now reports its nearly impossible to keep up with demand.
Howard Ryan, proprietor of 3MMasks.com says, "The last time we saw orders for 3M surgical masks and the 3M N95 variants was during the SARS break out in 2003. At that time we were selling single orders of N95 masks of 5,000 and 10,000 per sale. It looks like the surge is on again as a result of the avian bird flu. The Bush administration has done a very significant job raising awareness to America and America is preparing. We have just procured over 1,000,000 3M N95 masks to try and satisfy the demand. Buyers need to beware."
Avian Influenza or bird flu is an infectious disease caused by subtypes of the influenza A virus that normally infects birds and, less commonly, pigs. All birds are thought to be susceptible to infection, though some species are more resistant than others.
Humans can become infected by direct contact with discharges from infected birds, especially feces and respiratory secretions. Environmental transmission routes include though contaminated feed, water, cages, equipment, vehicle, and clothing.
