Prefectural Governor Hiroshi Ogawa explained at a press conference on May 11, plans to announce relaxation of restraints, such as business closures, pending the findings of the nation’s panel of experts scheduled for May 14. If Fukuoka is dropped from the list of designated ‘special alert prefectures”, closure requests for businesses other than eateries with guest services, sports clubs, pachinko parlors, gaming arcades, and similar facilities may be lifted. Even if “special alert” designation continues, the reopening of museums, libraries, and related facilities, as well as extended shop hours for eateries, will be considered. Meanwhile, the prefectural medical association announced a “Fukuoka Prefecture Scheme” to support the use of Favipiravir, or Avigan, as known in Japan. The anti-influenza drug has yet to be approved for the treatment of the people infected with the new coronavirus. It can currently be administered to some patients as clinical tests. Fukuoka’s regional scheme allows approximately 50 medical institutions to treat patients with mild to severe symptoms with the drug. On May 11, no new COVID-19 infections were found in the prefecture (cumulative total: 654.) Sources: Fukuoka Prefecture / Asahi / NHK
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