Regarding the position of the new corona under the Infectious Diseases Act, Prime Minister Kishida instructed to proceed with consideration in the direction of moving to "Type 5" this spring. and how to wear masks indoors.
On the 20th, Prime Minister Kishida discussed with Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Kato and others, and in principle, the position of the new corona under the Infectious Diseases Act will be shifted to "5", the same as seasonal influenza, etc., this spring. He instructed them to proceed with the consideration, and said, "We will further advance efforts to deal with COVID-19 and restore Japan to normal times."
In response to this, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare will start full-scale discussions by experts from next week on the specific timing of the transition, the medical system and the way public funds should be shared.
Among these, regarding the medical system, after the transition to "type 5", general medical institutions will be able to accept inpatients, and while it is expected to alleviate the medical strain, infection prevention at the institutions that newly accept them will be possible. Countermeasures will be a challenge.
In addition, if part of the cost of examinations and hospitalization is to be borne by the patient, it is feared that there will be an increase in the number of cases in which patients refrain from receiving medical examinations. will be
In addition, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare will conclude this year whether to continue free vaccinations.
On the other hand, regarding the wearing of masks indoors, Minister Kato has clarified his intention to review in the direction of easing, and it is expected that consideration will be conducted, including a plan to limit wearing to people with symptoms.