Associate Professor Naphaphorn Phonnikornkit, in charge of the programme at the northeastern school, said the masks will contain any mucus and saliva released in a sneeze or cough – and they’re reusable once washed.

It was a voluntary, free-time endeavour for the professors and students, who assembled in Naphaphorn’s residence in a division of duties based on their individual skills.

They even paid for the necessary materials themselves and brought sewing machines from home.