Surgical face masks

[Ianatlarge]

I will be visiting China soon, and have been advised to buy a bunch of surgical grade face masks to cope with the pollution. I have two questions.

 

a. Is this necessary?

b. when can I buy good masks in Bangkok?

 

Thanks all.

[lopburi3]

They have some of the worst air conditions in the world - not sure a mask will help that much as your eyes are likely to take a real beating.  Even before they became industrialized (late 70's) many days of my 3 months in Beijing could not see across the streets.  Coal burning for heat then.  Currently 242 (which is not good at all).  Have never bought but would try larger pharmacies near large government hospitals.

http://aqicn.org/city/beijing/