As the number of people infected with "Omicron strain" is confirmed in Japan, the government is considering to continue the border measures that have been suspended for new foreigners to enter the country from next month onward.
In addition, we would like to hurry to provide the third vaccination and the medicine to be taken to stop the spread of the infection.
Regarding the new mutant virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona, two new males were confirmed to be infected in Tokyo on the 17th, and one Japanese male who works for Camp Hansen of the U.S. Marine Corps in Okinawa Prefecture. Infection has been confirmed.
From November 30, the government has suspended new entry of foreigners from all countries and regions as a one-month measure for the time being, but relaxed border measures in situations where the characteristics of the virus are unclear. If we can't, we are considering continuing after January.
In addition, Prime Minister Kishida said on the 17th, "Omicron strains are extremely infectious, and experts inside and outside the world say that it is inevitable that the infection will spread all over the world sooner or later. We have positioned it as an extraordinary measure to gain time to become an illness, "he said, and announced a comprehensive measure consisting of prevention, examination, and early treatment.
Among these, regarding the third vaccination, the target of shortening the interval from the second vaccination from 8 months to 6 months in principle will be expanded to medical professionals, etc., and general elderly people will be vaccinated from February next year. The interval will be shortened to 7 months.
In addition, the government is preparing to start free reservation-free tests in all prefectures by the end of the year for those who cannot be vaccinated, and will start offering the medicines to be taken by the end of the year if the regulatory approval is given. However, we are also considering the burden of public funds.
The government wants to take thorough measures to stop the spread of infection as the movement of people is expected to increase toward the year-end and New Year holidays.