COVID-19 in Japan has brought not just an epidemic of infections, but also an onslaught of bullying and discrimination against the sick, their families and health workers. A government campaign to raise awareness seems to be helping, at least for medical workers.

When Arisa Kadono tested positive and was hospitalised in early April, she was only identified as a woman in her 20s in food business. Soon, friends let her know that groundless rumours were circulating: that the family-run bar she helps with was a hotbed of virus; and that she was sneaking out of the hospital and spreading the virus. "It was as if I was a criminal."