Transparent Face Masks Aid Communication for Deaf and Hard of Hearing During Pandemic

The Tangier association "Les Sourdoués", by designing masks adapted for the hard of hearing, allows the latter to make themselves understood by others, while respecting the health measures.

The mask, intended for the deaf, autistic, hard of hearing, and elderly people, is pierced in the middle by a transparent window that facilitates communication for those concerned, explains Nadia El Alami, president of the association. However, "this mask can also be used by speech therapists, audiologists, ENT specialists, psychologists, child psychiatrists, nurses, pharmacists, teachers, merchants, receptionists," she adds.

The mask has already been developed in several countries around the world, including Morocco. It is Nadia El Alami who, thanks to an explanatory video from an American internet user, produced the prototype of the mask in a Tangier factory in May, then sent it to a laboratory to verify the quality of the fabric.

"After a month of waiting, I am happy to announce that it has just been IMANOR certified!" proudly announced Nadia El Alami.

In total, 2,000 copies of the mask, called "maski’ri", will be sent free of charge to all deaf associations in Morocco, Nadia El Alami announced. "These masks, washable and reusable seven times, are not for sale. We are donating them to professional groups who will send us a small contribution for the proper functioning of our association," she explains.