The advent of face masks

A factory worker sorting out face masks at a production facility in Najaf, Iraq. There are cultural factors at play when in comes to wearing face masks in public around the world. — Photos: AFP

A mysterious and deadly disease rips through the population, causing a fearful public to adopt hastily-made face masks, as experts debate how best to slow the spread of infection.

A recent scene from cities worldwide tiptoeing out of lockdown?