Mask wearing is mandatory at a cinema in New York. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

But most countries have relaxed their entry requirements for foreign tourists.

Since Tuesday, under new travel rules, Italy has allowed travelers from outside the European Union to enter Italy without quarantine. Visitors from non-EU nations are no longer required to show a negative test result and proof of either full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19.

Japan on Tuesday eased border controls imposed during the pandemic and raised the number of people allowed to enter Japan from 3,500 to 5,000 a day. Japanese authorities will also ease quarantine regulations.

The Republic of Korea is considering a no-quarantine policy for fully vaccinated foreigners.

Malaysia will begin easing entry requirements on Thursday.