It's been announced that Hey! Say! JUMP member Yaotome Hikaru will be temporarily halting his activities in order to receive treatment for sudden deafness. 

According to the announcement on Johnny's & Associates's official website, Yaotome started having symptoms of dizziness and ringing in the ears in December. After examination, he was diagnosed with sudden deafness. Since then, he had been continuing his activities while receiving treatment, but it started to negatively affect his work. Johnny's wanted to prioritize his health, and after consultation with Yaotome and the members, it was decided that he take a break from his activities temporarily. 

This announcement was originally supposed to take place after the group wrapped up their nationwide arena tour 'Fab! -Arena speaks.-.' However, they decided to announce it at this timing as the last seven shows were cancelled after members Chinen Yuri and Inoo Kei were infected with COVID-19. 

Yaotome said that he will work hard to make his comeback before the group's 15th anniversary day. "It would make me happy if you would wait for my return," he expressed.