Notes on Obon Homecoming Ideas to seek opinions from subcommittee Nishimura Economic Revitalization Minister August 2 19:54
Regarding measures against the new coronavirus, the Minister for Economic Rehabilitation Nishimura held a press conference at the press conference, saying that returning home during the Obon season could spread the infection to elderly people I asked for the opinion of an expert.
Among them, the Minister of Economic Rehabilitation Nishimura exchanged opinions with the governors of the three prefectures of Saitama, Chiba, and Fukuoka, where the number of infected people is increasing, on the 2nd. We have repeatedly shown the idea of supporting prefectures to secure accommodation and medical facilities such as hotels.
Also, regarding the securing of such facilities in Okinawa Prefecture, it was clarified that discussions were started between Okinawa Prefecture and JICA = Japan International Cooperation Agency, which has facilities in the prefecture. In case it is difficult to secure it, we would like to provide support so that there is no pressure on the hospital bed or medical care system."
On the other hand, Minister Nishimura said about returning home during the Obon season, "If you go to the countryside with your family and eat in the same environment as the elderly, there is a possibility that asymptomatic young people and children will spread to the elderly, so it is enough. We have to be careful," and this week we held a government subcommittee to ask the experts for their opinions on precautions and measures to take when returning home.