Trump "Masks Should Be Worn When Going Out... I Won't Wear One" (Summary)

CDC recommends voluntary mask wearing
Changes stance to mask use only for patients and medical staff
Recognizes mask prevention culture in Asia including Han
Trump's pressure on 3M mask exports also controversial

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended voluntary mask-wearing to the public to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

President Trump made this statement during the White House COVID-19 task force briefing on the afternoon of the 3rd (local time). Research showing a rapid increase in COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and the spread of infection by asymptomatic carriers is analyzed as the reason for overturning the health policy that "only healthcare workers and patients should wear masks."

President Trump explained, "I recommend that the American people voluntarily wear masks when going out and in public places." However, he emphasized that he himself would not wear a mask.

President Trump recommended using cloth masks instead of medical masks and elaborated that this guideline would be applied for a certain period.

Earlier, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio also announced guidelines to cover the face with masks or scarves when going out.

Major media outlets also reported that the U.S. is feverishly securing masks overseas by offering high prices strategically.

In particular, President Trump became the center of controversy over masks that day. He pressured the domestic chemical company 3M to ban mask exports to Canada and Latin America. However, the company countered that banning exports could cause greater confusion, such as difficulties in importing medical equipment into the U.S.

In this regard, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned, "Reducing trade volume or creating obstacles for essential goods and services, including medical equipment, would be a mistake."

Meanwhile, as of that day, the number of COVID-19 infections in the U.S. has surpassed 230,000, and deaths have exceeded 7,000.