Medical mask supply in Wichita area is running low, donations sought

Medical masks are becoming rare enough during the COVID-19 pandemic that medical officials are struggling to find them, according to the Medical Society of Sedgwick County.

“One clinic in Wichita was down to its last four masks before a local manufacturing company donated several boxes,” Medical Society executive director Phillip Brownlee said.

The Medical Society is asking anyone with unopened N95 masks to consider donating them. The situation is becoming so dire that U.S. Vice President Mike Pence asked construction companies to donate masks earlier in the week, Brownlee said in a Friday news release.

“Physicians and their staffs are on the front lines,” Brownlee said. “The last thing we want in a public health emergency is for them to get sick and not be able to treat patients.”

Brownlee said the Trump administration is working to increase the production of the masks but he hopes a local effort will float Sedgwick County medical providers until more masks arrive.

Canceled blood drives because of the coronavirus has also led to a shortage of blood, Brownlee said. Anyone wanting to donate blood can work with the American Red Cross at 707 N. Main or by calling the nonprofit at 316-219-4000.

Anyone who wishes to donate unopened masks can bring them to the Medical Society’s office, 1102 S. Hillside, or call the organization at 316-683-7557.

This story was originally published March 20, 2020 at 11:45 AM.