As debates over masks have returned to the United States after a judge struck down a federal mask mandate for interstate travel, the nation joined nearly to dozen countries which have ended broad mask and pandemic measures this year.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the withdrawal of mask mandates in public places on Jan. 19, citing information from government researchers suggesting that the worst of the Omicron variant cases had already peaked.

Additionally, face coverings are no longer legally required on public transportation in England.