The government is going to start rationing the purchase of face masks. That’s due to public anxiety over the novel coronavirus and a public frenzy over buying surgical masks.

Beginning Thursday, surgical face masks will be available for purchase at over 6000 drug stores that are affiliated with the national health insurance. Every citizen can purchase 2 per week at a price of NT$5 by showing their health insurance card.

Vice President Chen Chien-jen told the public that not everyone needs to wear face masks. He said that there have been no community outbreaks in Taiwan and those with the Wuhan coronavirus have been quarantined. He said that the possibility of getting the virus is very low.

The vice president said the only people who really need to wear surgical masks are medical and epidemic prevention personnel and those who are visiting patients.  Those who exhibit symptoms of respiratory ailments, fevers and those with chronic disease should also wear surgical masks.