The Ministry of Health (MOH) has given the assurance that there is sufficient stock of N95 masks to meet anticipated needs, even as Singapore finds itself in the midst of some of the worst haze conditions in decades.

Nationally, Singapore has close to 9 million N95 masks in its armoury, said director of medical services K. Satku at a joint briefing by MOH and the National Environment Agency on Thursday evening.

Large retail and pharmacy chains like Guardian, Unity, Cold Storage and Giant will have fresh stock of the masks on their shelves by this evening, said deputy director of MOH's epidemiology and disease control division Jeannie Tay.

Dr Tay advised Singaporeans to buy N95 masks only when needed and that there is no need to stockpile. More orders will also be placed for the masks, added Prof Satku.

Employers who face difficulties purchasing the masks can call the Manpower Ministry at 64385122.