Message from the Mayor Regarding the Lift of State of Emergency (as of 6/17/2021)

Today, it was decided that as of June 20, state of emergency will be lifted. In Hiroshima Prefecture, while we are re-extending our intensive infection prevention measures until 7/11, we will gradually lift restrictions for citizens and businesses; however, requests for shortened hours of operation for dining establishments offering alcohol will continue.

This restriction is necessary to stop the spread of COVID-19. It is now more important than ever that citizens, as well as our businesses, continue to work in solidarity to overcome this crisis. As vaccination is the best and most effective way to fight COVID-19, what we must do now is make sure that our citizens receive the vaccine as quickly as possible.

To make that happen, the City of Hiroshima is working with medical associations and other related organizations to ensure that we reach our goal of completely vaccinating the elderly by around the end of July. For those under 65, we are beginning vaccinations earlier than planned for those who work at elderly care facilities, facilities for those with disabilities, and child welfare facilities. From here forward, we will proceed with vaccinations while responding to the various needs of businesses, universities, and other related organizations as much as possible.

Furthermore, we are working on vaccinating the local community together with local organizations that offer their cooperation in running services such as helping to make vaccination appointments and providing assisted transportation services, accelerating our vaccination pace with innovative ideas.

I would like to increase our vaccination rate by having the majority of our citizens receive their vaccinations through these initiatives, and I sincerely ask for your cooperation in these efforts.

June 17, 2021
MATSUI Kazumi
Mayor
The City of Hiroshima