China coronavirus: tensions high as thousands queue in Hong Kong desperate for masks, many leaving empty-handed

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Tensions boiled over outside some shops in Hong Kong as thousands queued for surgical masks to protect themselves from the Wuhan virus amid growing fears of supply shortages.

Braving the cold weather warning, some defied pleas not to camp out overnight after Watsons announced on social media that a small quantity of the protective coverings would be available at 230 of its stores on Thursday.