Updated March 20, 2020
An internal memo from Grenoble University Hospital, leaked on March 16, suggested staff produce fabric protective masks with detailed instructions. The hospital's communications team confirms this was only an "additional option."
After the memo surfaced in the press, we reached out to the Grenoble University Hospital Communications Department for clarity.
Sciencepost: Why offer this "option" to staff? Is there a mask shortage?
"No, there is no shortage of either treatment masks or FFP2 masks; we receive regular deliveries. Until now, only healthcare professionals in direct patient contact were required to wear them. Starting tomorrow (March 17), we'll distribute masks to all staff, including administrative personnel. For admitted patients, distribution will be on a case-by-case basis."
"No instructions were issued for staff to manufacture cloth masks themselves. This was shared within the hospital community as a complementary option for those not in direct patient contact who might want it."
Sciencepost: If there's no shortage, why suggest staff make their own masks?
"It's simply a possibility—an additional option for non-patient-contact staff. It also helps prepare for any potential future shortages."
Sciencepost: Your internal note recommends washing masks at 30°C, while other university hospitals suggest 60°C. What's the correct temperature?
"I can't address this specifically now, but I'll investigate and email you a response."
A call to produce fabric masks for CHU healthcare professionals was posted on the Facebook page of Mon Petit Oko, a Grenoble zero-waste shop, and widely shared.
Based on available sources, ironing or tumble-drying fabric masks at over 90°C for a few minutes appears sufficient for disinfection.
A Facebook group has formed to coordinate mask needs in Grenoble and other cities.
Several hospitals have issued calls for cloth mask production via Facebook.
