Regarding the position of the new corona under the Infectious Diseases Control Law, the government's task force decided on May 8 to move from the current "type 2" to "type 5", the same as seasonal influenza.
On the evening of the 27th, the government opened a new corona countermeasures headquarters, attended by Prime Minister Kishida and Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Kato.
In this, Prime Minister Kishida said about the position of the new corona under the Infectious Diseases Act, "Based on the opinion of the council of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, unless special circumstances arise, from May 8, it will be classified as a 'Category 5 infectious disease'. I confirmed the policy, ”he said, and revealed that he decided on May 8th to move from the current “type 2” to “type 5”.
Before the transition, we will hear the opinions of experts again and make a final confirmation whether it will be implemented as planned.
In addition, after the transition to Category 5, we will review the medical care provision system so that patients can receive medical care at a wide range of medical institutions. He explained that he will continue to pay public expenses and will clarify the specifics of the situation in early March.
Furthermore, regarding vaccines, if necessary, we will continue to be able to receive them at no cost.
In addition, regarding masks, regardless of whether they are indoors or outdoors, he said that he would review the wearing of masks based on individual judgment, and would consider the specific timing of the review.
On the other hand, at the headquarters on the 27th, regarding the number of people who can participate in loud events, the current limit of 50% of the venue's capacity will be abolished, and if infection control measures are taken, it will be possible to enter up to 100% of the capacity. We decided to start using it immediately.