Trump, whose critics have accused him of trying to deflect blame over his handling of the crisis, did not cite any evidence to back his accusation that hospitals were hoarding the devices.

Doctors and nurses pleaded for supplies such as masks and ventilators that are critical in their battle to treat a surging number of coronavirus patients, while governments on Tuesday continued to roll out measures that have put more than one-fifth of the world’s population under some form of lockdown.

The coronavirus pandemic advanced Sunday after the U.S. and Europe reported soaring new cases, prompting a scramble in some regions to set up additional hospital beds and replenish much-needed medical supplies.

"We are considering using any measures necessary to ensure that Canadians and our health-care systems have the support they need," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said.

Canada has a national emergency stockpile, which includes medical equipment and supplies.

Ontario stockpiled some 55 million N95 masks and other medical equipment after the SARS epidemic. Officials have confirmed that the masks in the stockpile have passed their expiration date.

Rising demands for face masks in Canada have been reported amid the coronavirus outbreak.