I mostly threw my masks away at the end of the summer, and have only continued to wear one on crowded London transport. I am mildly asthmatic, a bit claustrophobic, and have glasses that are prone to steaming up, but if there’s a mask mandate on the New York subway, so be it. I’m a guest here, so I complied. 

Even so, I was genuinely surprised by how many people adhere to this rule. Among legendarily defiant New Yorkers, there was nary a mouth or nose to be seen. Taking an opportunity to let my face covering slip to revive my oxygen-deprived lungs, I was treated to a glare by another passenger.

For a few giddy weeks in the summer, New Yorkers were allowed to bare their faces in public places. But then the Delta variant surged, and vaccination rates stalled. Only 68 per cent of New Yorkers are fully vaccinated, and there are particular problems with state employees. During my trip I saw a TV news story stating that the NYPD has more members seeking vaccine exemption than any other City agency.

Thus, since mid-September, the Covid regulations have been strict. To gain entry to any restaurant or bar, one must show proof of vaccination, backed up by ID. All unvaccinated people must wear masks in indoor public places, as must everyone on public transport, and in health and long-term care facilities.