National Jan 12, 2022
The health ministry said Tuesday it had received about 85,000 applications as of Thursday for free cloth face masks left in storage.
National Dec 21, 2021
11 million 'Abenomasks' in government stockpile found defective
Prime Minister Kishida said his government has spent a total of ¥2.92 billion in additional costs for mask inspections.
National / Science & Health Dec 9, 2021
A team at Kyoto Prefectural University hopes the face coverings will offer users an easy way to test whether they have contracted the virus.
National Oct 12, 2021
The plaintiffs in the case are demanding that the government cancel the fast-track approval it gave to COVID-19 vaccines earlier this year.
National Oct 11, 2021
Dining without masks quadruples COVID-19 infection risk, survey shows
The survey by Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases comes amid concerns that cases could surge as more people dine with friends or others after the virus emergency was lifted.
Style & Design | ON: DESIGN Sep 19, 2021
The latest Japanese interior design brings origami into the fold
by Mio Yamada
The art of paper folding has been inspiring kids and adults for generations. “On: Design” looks at a few contemporary goods inspired by the aesthetics and utility of the time-honored craft.
World / Science & Health Jul 31, 2021
Delta variant as contagious as chickenpox, warns U.S. health authority
The Centers for Disease Control recommends a return to universal wearing of face masks to reduce transmission.
Commentary / World Jul 29, 2021
How behavioral economics views mask mandates
by Allison Schrager
What we know from behavioral economics suggests that universal mask requirements will undermine the effort to get as many people as possible vaccinated.
Summer Olympics Jul 29, 2021
by Tariq Panja
The pandemic has changed the way Olympians receive their medals. But in the rush of elation, coronavirus rules and social distancing policies are routinely forgotten.
Summer Olympics / Swimming Jul 26, 2021
Olympic medalists allowed to remove masks for 30 seconds on podium
The relaxed "playbook" protocols took effect Sunday and "will continue to be put into practice in all venues over the coming days."
National Jul 24, 2021
Tokyo Olympics see 17 more COVID-19 cases amid concerns over anti-virus measures
Infections have continued to trickle in daily amid concerns over whether anti-virus measures are being properly followed, including athletes who went maskless at the opening ceremony.
Summer Olympics Jul 24, 2021
Mask-shy Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan rain on COVID-compliant opening parade
The sight marked an awkward contrast with other national teams who covered their faces in line with COVID-19 protocols.