本文
In response to the rise in COVID-19 infections since late March, the prefecture has implemented intensive infection prevention measures as of May 8. However, the infection situation has taken a sharp turn for the worst with the number of newly reported infections (100,000 people for the past week) topping the levels recorded in December of last year.
Looking at the state of infections across Japan, state of emergency measures have been extended until May 31 for an expanded number of prefectures. The number of prefectures under semi-emergency measures aimed at containing the number of infections in regions has also increased, and as of May 14, state of emergency was declared for Hiroshima Prefecture based on the Act on Special Measures for Pandemic Influenza and New Infectious Diseases Preparedness and Response.
At this point in time, Hiroshima Prefecture is at Level 4, and looking at the pattern of new cases, they are rapidly rising not only in Hiroshima and Fukuyama City, but also in other cities and towns, spreading to the entirety of the prefecture. (Newly reported infections (per 100,000) for the week until 5/14/2021 — Hiroshima Prefecture: 48.6, Hiroshima City: 73.5, Kure City: 29.3, Fukuyama City: 17.7)
In addition, the number of cases for the week until 5/14 rose sharply to 1,366 compared to 563 the previous week. Looking at analyses of the cases, there has been a notable spread of infections in the younger generations, with 60% of all infections seen in those younger than 40.
As for our medical systems, the current strain on hospital beds (number of hospital beds currently in use) is at 64.3%, and the strain on hospital beds for severe cases (number of hospital beds currently in use) has risen to 43.2%.
Experts believe that we must immediately implement even stronger measures than the ones currently in place to reduce outings, and we must work to ensure that those with symptoms can receive proper care at medical institutions.
With the increase in infections post-Golden Week, the spread of COVID-19 variants, as well as the unchanging fact that severe cases and deaths are on the rise, the prefecture is in a state of crisis.
To protect the health and the lives of our citizens, as well as keep the socioeconomic impact to a minimum, we hereby implement intensive infection prevention measures along with necessary prefecture-wide state of emergency measures.
Reduce all outings and time spent out in half, including necessary everyday errands and shopping. In particular, further reduce outings after 8 pm. Note that this restriction does not apply to school commutes or visits to medical institutions. Also note that when outings are necessary, always wear a mask and remember to avoid contact with others as much as possible by avoiding crowded places and peak hours. If you must go out, be sure to keep a distance of 2 meters or more from others.
Avoid going to dining establishments with anyone other than those you live with. Do not go to dining establishments that do not comply with the formal request for closure/shortened hours. When going to dining establishments, choose Hiroshima Active Guard partners and COVID-19 Infection Prevention Measures partner establishments who have implemented proper physical infection prevention measures, such as acrylic panels. Be sure to also make use of the Hiroshima COVID-19 QR Code and cooperate with infection prevention measures in place at dining establishments.
Do not drink in groups outside/in parks due to high risk of infection. If going to an event, go straight there and then afterwards, go straight home.
To the utmost extent possible, do NOT travel outside of the prefecture. Please note that this does not apply to travel for work, school, or medical visits.
In order to reduce the opportunity for person-to-person contact by cutting down person-to-person contact by 80% through a reduction in the number of people out by 50%, we formally request the following during the intensive measures period in addition to strict adherence to infection prevention measures:
As Hiroshima Prefecture is at Level 4, businesses that are essential for stable citizen life and the economy, as well as those who support these businesses, should continue to do their duties according to the characteristics of their business while taking the necessary infection prevention measures.
Implement the following to avoid the 3Cs and prevent infection:
Anyone can catch COVID-19. We ask that you act calmly and rationally: do not be swayed by fake or suspicious news or act in ways which violate someone’s human rights. NEVER slander or discriminate against those such as COVID-19 patients, their families, medical and welfare workers, or international residents.
In order to find new infections in the early stages and offer appropriate medical care at hospitals or quarantine hotels, we will implement the following:
As cluster outbreaks continue to occur at medical and elderly care facilities, as well as at schools, we will strengthen our measures to detect new patients (the cause of clusters) faster and end cluster outbreaks faster: