Nonwoven masks are best defense, but choose your face covering carefully: Japan expert
February 1, 2021 (Mainichi Japan)
A nonwoven cloth mask, which research shows is better at stopping fluid droplets than other types of mask. (Mainichi/Natsuko Ishida) TOKYO More shops and schools across Japan are asking people not just to wear masks, but specifically to wear nonwoven cloth masks. The reason: Research results show that the nonwoven coverings are more effective at stopping droplets than the regular cloth or polyurethane versions that became popular in part due to their looks during last spring s mask shortages. Now, experts are calling on people to choose the best type of mask for the situation, depending on their health and cost performance.
Emergency patient rejections up 55% in Japan over New Year amid virus surge
January 11, 2021 (Mainichi Japan)
An ambulance is seen in this file photo. (Mainichi) TOKYO - Amid the resurgence of coronavirus cases, Japan saw nearly a 55% increase in emergency patients being turned away from medical facilities three times or more over the New Year s period compared to the month before, investigations have found. The rise, uncovered by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications Fire and Disaster Management Agency, suggests that the number of emergency patients being accepted at medical institutions has fallen as hospital beds have been filled by people with the coronavirus.