Snack, scratch in safety: New Covid-19 helmet brings comfort to frontline workers, Asia News

Snack, scratch in safety: New Covid-19 helmet brings comfort to frontline workers, Asia News

Hey, Frontline Fighters – Your New BFF: The “Vihelm” Helmet!

While the world battles COVID‑19, three bright Vietnamese school kids came up with a brain‑child that let doctors and nurses keep eating and wipe sweat without getting zapped by the virus.

Why is this a game‑changer?

  • Comfort meets safety: The Vihelm (Vietnam + Helmet) wraps you snugly but lets you reach inside.
  • Snack‑ready: An internal pocket holds your favorite granola bar or a little cake slice.
  • Hands on the face: The built‑in glove box lets you swipe sweat or clean your visor without taking off the gear.
  • Powered Air Purifier: A hose connects to a respirator that filters the air so even if you bumble around, you’re protected.

Cool Facts & Numbers

  • The students were 14 years old and snagged the “Best Invention Design Award” in Canada.
  • With a cost under $300 (about S$410), this helmet is a budget‑friendly giant.
  • VinSmart (a Vingroup arm) has signed on to help mass‑produce the final helmet version.

A Real Head‑Nabber (Slightly)

“The glove box is the secret sauce,” says Tran Nguyen Khanh An, one of the award‑winning teens. “You can use it to interact with your face safely.” Plus, it comes with little pockets that give you a quick scratch if the device starts rubbing in the wrong spot.

Solid Takeaway

Imagine this: You’re on your shifts for 12 hours, you’re sweating, you need a bite of pizza, you’ll instantly pick up a snack from your helmet’s interior, wipe your face with minimal risk – all while still looking like a champ.

Stay Safe, Stay Hungry, Stay Awesome!