No screaming in Japanese amusement parks

A group of amusement park operators in Japan has released guidelines about visitors screaming in their parks. This is after Japan's government asked companies to prepare for the "new normal" and for life with COVID-19. The guidelines instruct park owners on how to operate safely in our coronavirus world. One of the guidelines is no screaming on rollercoasters or in haunted houses. Scientists have said that using the voice to sing, scream or shout increases the amount of virus that an infected person can put into the air. Staying quiet or talking quietly reduces the risk of spreading the virus. The park guidelines say visitors should, "refrain from vocalizing loudly" on all rides.

Japan's amusement parks are slowly reopening as the coronavirus emergency was lifted earlier this week. The country's biggest theme parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan (in Osaka), remain closed. They have been closed since the beginning of March. They have not set a date for reopening. When they do open, they will likely follow the guidelines. Other recommendations include mask wearing and social distancing. One piece of advice stated: "Ghosts lurking in haunted houses should maintain a healthy distance from their 'victims'". In addition, all park staff, including those dressed as mascots and superheroes, should not shake hands or high-five anyone.