As of May 8, the classification of COVID-19 has been changed to the same category as seasonal influenza (“Category 5”) in Japan. Fukuoka Governor Hattori emphasized that the virus is not eradicated and called on individuals to make their own judgments on appropriate infection control measures. Governor Hattori expressed gratitude for overcoming eight waves of infections thanks to public understanding and cooperation. He reminded that while the classification has changed to Category 5, the coronavirus is still present and urged people to continue to protect themselves and high-risk elderly individuals.
Furthermore, Governor Hattori said he aims to review past responses and measures and prepare for potential future outbreaks, focusing on securing medical care systems. Following the reclassification, there will be no legally-based requests for self-restraint on going out, with infection control left to personal judgment. It is recommended that people refrain from going out for five days from the day after the onset of symptoms. Medical costs, which were previously free, will now be revised to include self-payment for testing and outpatient consultation fees.
As for medical care provision systems, efforts will be made to accommodate hospitalized patients across a wide range of medical institutions. However, Fukuoka Prefecture plans to secure up to 1,600 beds in the meantime to prepare for potential re-expansion of infections during the transition period. The list of medical institutions providing outpatient care and testing will continue to be published on the prefecture’s website. Source: Fukuoka Prefecture / NHK
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