99% Invisible Masking for a Friend
Apr 21, 2020
Rebecca Kanthor, a Shanghai-based reporter with 17 years of experience in China, and Christos Linteres, a medical anthropologist, dive into the cultural significance of masks. They discuss how mask-wearing is a normal part of life in Asia, contrasting it with the U.S. perspective. The conversation also explores the historical context of masks during epidemics, including the pivotal role of Dr. Wu Lian De. Additionally, they highlight how manufacturers rapidly pivoted to produce essential medical supplies during the pandemic.
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GPS Mask Reminder
- Rebecca Kanthor's GPS app gave her an unexpected message while traveling in China for Chinese New Year.
- The message, spoken in a calm voice, urged her to wear a mask and stay safe.
Mask Preparedness
- In China, having masks at home is common practice, unlike in the U.S..
- This difference highlights distinct cultural norms regarding mask usage and preparedness.
Historic Mask Photo
- A photo from over 100 years ago shows people wearing masks during the Manchurian plague.
- This demonstrates a long history of mask use in China during epidemics, documented through photography.
