In response to the rapid spread of the new corona infection, Prime Minister Kishida has decided to discuss the response with the relevant ministers on the afternoon of the 22nd, and in order to maintain socio-economic activities, he will wait at home etc. We are making adjustments to shorten the period from 7 days to 5 days in principle.
The number of new infections on the 21st of the new corona exceeded 30,000 for the first time in Tokyo, surpassing 180,000 nationwide, the highest number ever for two consecutive days, and the rapid spread of infection continues.
Under these circumstances, in order to maintain socio-economic activities, the government has shortened the waiting period at home, etc., which is required of close contacts, from the current principle of 7 days to 5 days, and the inspections on the 2nd and 3rd days are carried out. If it is negative, we are adjusting so that the wait can be canceled on the third day.
In addition, in order to prevent medical strains, we will establish a system that allows people with symptoms to test themselves with a test kit before going to the outpatient department for fever, extend financial support to medical institutions, and vaccination the younger generation. We are also considering measures to encourage this.
Prime Minister Kishida will discuss these matters with relevant ministers such as Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto on the afternoon of the 22nd, and will promptly announce the policy once it is finalized.
Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto "I want to respond in light of changes in the infection situation."
At a press conference, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto said, "There are numerical values for the infection status that are a prerequisite for determining the waiting period for close contacts. Based on the daily changes in the situation, we will take necessary measures based on the opinions of experts. I would like to consider and implement it appropriately and promptly. "
In addition, "Yesterday's expert meeting did not evaluate that the degree of medical pressure was such that behavioral restrictions were immediately imposed, and thorough basic infection control measures were taken to maintain socio-economic activities as much as possible. There were many opinions that it was necessary to call for them. Not implementing new restrictions on behavior does not mean that we can relax our countermeasures. "