The Connecticut Department of Correction says inmates are now making face masks for emergency use during the coronavirus pandemic.
The state says production started Monday. Officials say inmates can make up to 1,400 face masks a day, and maybe more as the process is streamlined.
The masks are made of cotton fabric, and they’re intended for use when N95 respirators or surgical masks that offer more protection aren’t available. Health care workers across the country say they’ll need millions of face masks to fight the pandemic.
The department has released a general COVID-19 response plan that calls for limits on large group activities. Inmates are making masks and other protective equipment in several other states, including Iowa and Texas.
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