The Japanese government announced that, starting from March 13, 2023, it would be up to individuals to decide whether or not to wear masks in public places. Although it is widely recognized that masks can be worn outdoors at a certain distance, many people still wear masks on the streets of Japan. For Japanese people who are hesitant to break social norms alone, no matter how scientifically sound the advice may be, a government decision like this one may be necessary for the new phase of COVID-19 in Japan. One positive outcome is that Japanese people have always been accustomed to wearing masks. Influenza typically rages in the winter, but there were very few cases of influenza this winter. As spring approaches, pollen season is coming, as reported in the news. As an annual sufferer of hay fever, I may need to continue wearing a mask even after March 13, when the ban on not wearing masks will be lifted.

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