AYAKA has been infected with COVID-19.

Based on the audio transmission from producer KAWAKAMI and the announcement from MCZ official website, the situation is as follows.

• MCZ conducted a PCR test when they were rehearsing for the Valentine's Day event scheduled to be held at Saitama Super Arena on 2/12 and 2/13.
• AYAKA tested positive.
• However, AYAKA has not shown any symptoms such as sore throat or fever, and will be under medical treatment and observation for a certain period of time.
• The other members of MCZ do not seem to fall under the definition of a close contact person, but we are waiting for the decision of the public health center.
• For now, the Valentine's Day event will be held as scheduled.

In the past few weeks, there has been a series of coronavirus infections among TV and live performers in the Japanese entertainment industry, and the number of infections among idols such as AKB48 and Morning Musume 22. 

Fortunately, AYAKA has not shown any symptoms, so we hope that she will return to good health.