Japanese experts on COVID-19 say people may not need to wear face masks at school ceremonies in areas where infections are subsiding.

The members of a health ministry expert panel and others compiled a statement ahead of the school ceremony season. Japanese schools usually hold graduation ceremonies in March and entrance ceremonies in April.

The statement said reports have shown that the risk of infection at schools is reduced when everyone wears masks. But the experts added that they also understand that many students may hope to attend milestone ceremonies without masks.

The statement concluded that ceremony attendees may not need to wear masks if infections in their areas are judged as subsiding.

It said those who feel ill should refrain from attending ceremonies. Attendees are advised to keep a distance from one another and avoid talking in proximity. The statement also said ceremony venues should be fully ventilated. It added that whether or not to wear a mask is a personal decision that should be respected.

The statement will be submitted to a meeting of the panel scheduled for Wednesday.