The Global Mask Shortage Is About to Get Much Worse (1)

Michael Einhorn’s medical supply company may run out of the masks used to protect against coronavirus in two weeks unless the Chinese manufacturer of his branded equipment resumes production this week.

“We’re having to make tough decisions every day on who gets masks and who doesn’t,” said Einhorn, the founder of New York-based Dealmed-Park Surgical, which employs almost 100 people. “Do masks go to the suburban hospital or the 911 responders? It’s a huge responsibility, and we know we’re going to make some mistakes.”

Einhorn’s dilemma is playing out on a global stage. With the deadly virus now present in ...