Many health experts said the face masks don't offer much protection from the flu, and local health officials have not advised people to buy the masks.

But stores like a Bartell Drugs at the base of Queen Anne Hill have no masks left.

The pharmacist said the store asked its supplier for more, but didn't get the order on Monday. The pharmacists said the wholesaler apparently can't get any masks now because millions are going to Mexico, where the outbreak began.

U.S. health officials have pointedly not recommended the use of masks, but officials in Mexico have insisted people wear them in public.

Some experts said the masks may be slightly effective, will calm fears, and perhaps will get people who are nonchalant about the outbreak to take it more seriously.

But here, most experts said that instead of using a mask, you should be vigilant about washing your hands with soap and water.