A number of museums across Japan have started collecting materials related to the novel coronavirus pandemic, such as face masks and fliers, to keep a record of everyday life during the outbreak and pass on as a legacy to future generations.

The move comes as museums realize they have hardly any record of the Spanish flu epidemic, which caused an estimated 20 million to 50 million deaths worldwide roughly 100 years ago.

In the Hokkaido town of Urahoro, residents have donated about 200 items to a public museum in response to a request in February. The items include a flier informing residents of the cancellation of a festival, coupons for takeout meals and cloth face masks distributed by the central government.