The Monaco authorities will start the free distribution of masks from Friday, April 17. The first to receive them will be residents over 65, and the Town Hall will make the deliveries of two per person. Gradually the entire population will receive the masks free of charge.

The Government announced on Wednesday that it is buying the total output of Bettina, the Monaco-based firm. Total months output of the masks is 80,000 and they are made of washable and reusable fabric. The masks have been certified by the French Army Health Service which reports to the Ministry of the Armed Forces.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of screening tests have been ordered, with delivery expected in the next few days. The National Council has urged that the greatest number of people be tested as soon as possible, as recommended by the World Health Organisation.

PHOTO: Officials on a visit to the Bettina workshops in Monaco