From bird beaks to wrapping paper to bras, we follow the curious history of one of the most important defenses in our fight against COVID-19. Throughline The Mask The Mask Listen · 39:18 39:18 1 of 0 i View slideshow The N95 respirator has become one of the most coveted items in the world, especially by medical professionals. From bird beaks to wrapping paper to bras, we follow the curious history of one of the most important defenses in our fight against COVID-19.