On May 23rd, Hello! Project announced that Morning Musume.'22 members Makino Maria and Yamazaki Mei have tested positive for COVID-19. 

Hello! Project wrote on their official website, "After conducting a PCR test, members Makino Maria and Yamazaki Mei have been confirmed positive for COVID-19. As a result, they will be taking a break from their activities for the time being." 

They added, "Currently, Yamazaki is not experiencing any symptoms, but Makino has a low-grade fever and sore throat. The timing of their comebacks will be determined by their recovery progress along with instructions from the local government and health center. Furthermore, there are no persons of close contact to the above-mentioned persons."

Earlier on the 20th, it was announced that member Ishida Ayumi was infected with COVID-19, and 8 members were confirmed to be close contacts.