Customers who complain and are abusive are frustrated that they can’t get an item that they used to buy all the time, and they develop a sense of deprivation. They also feel stuck with no way out as the outbreak continues with no end in sight.

Just tell them to buy a bar of soap instead. It's a hundred times more effective than a mask.

Maybe if someone told these customers that masks literally do nothing anyway.

(Japanese) customers should instead be given leaflets, educating them that masks don't actually protect against any airborne viruses, and that washing hands regularly and staying at home if they are sick are normal, common-sensical things to do amongst most other people around the world.

I still have not seen any official or unofficial campaigns or advice advocating handwashing, self distancing and isolating yourself if unwell. Nothing. Just stuff about masks.

Masks are not a sanitary item in Japan.

They are part of the shy, hide, and not be seen culture.

Even preschoolers will often don a mask when not sick just for the heck of it.

Paul Laimal-convoy, Agreed! Re education is really needed here.

@educator60

no, not on Breakfast telly or on those excruciating 'talento' programmes where they eat the same stuff every show and day "Oishiiiiiiiiiiiiii" in an exaggerated manner, no.

Nor have I seen any signs in my city in any public place, toilets have cold water only and no soap and nothing to dry your hands on. So, again, no.