Pharmacies and other shops in Doha are witnessing an increasing demand not only for face masks and gloves but also face shields and goggles, which provide additional protection against the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).
A supervisor of an online store told Gulf Times that they have been receiving a huge number of orders for face shields from individuals and groups, including some pharmacies and
companies, in the past three weeks.
Since many of the online orders they get daily are in bulk, he said they plan to double their capacity to meet the growing demand for these items.
About the possible reasons for the demand surge, he said most employers want to ensure the safety of their employees amid the Covid-19 pandemic as they continue to operate (based on the guidelines issued by Qatari authorities) amid the current situation.
It is learnt that several studies found that wearing a mask, as well as face shields, in public has significantly reduced the risk of getting infected by viruses.
An employee at a pharmacy in Doha echoed similar statements saying that many of their customers who previously purchased sanitisers, face masks and gloves are now also looking for face shields.
“Customers can also order online and these items can be delivered within 24 hours. We have enough stocks,” she said, adding that they have been getting a high number of orders from their website since last month.
Besides local companies, several online retailers abroad also benefit from an increasing number of orders from Doha, particularly goggles and other equipment for eye protection.
Some residents said they feel more protected when wearing face shields or goggles either at work or while doing their grocery shopping at
hypermarkets.
Filipino expatriate Joel Dela Cruz, who ordered bought face shields for him and his family a few days ago, said it is better to be overprotected and stay safe than contract Covid-19.
“I read a recent study saying that our eyes also serve as entry points of coronavirus to enter our system, so I find wearing a face shield or goggle, along with a face mask, safer than just wearing ordinary eyeglasses,” he pointed out.
The Doha resident added that many of his friends also followed the same advice and have started wearing either face shields or goggles when outside of their homes.
Meanwhile, a compatriot named Jay S suggested to pool orders from friends or colleagues and make a one-time purchase for goggles, which may not be available in Doha. He was charged $19 as shipping fee for six goggles, which cost $11.20 each.
