Message by Governor Kuroiwa(英語)

Message by Governor Kuroiwa

The third wave of the novel coronavirus infection is surging across the country.  The number of the new cases in Kanagawa exceeded 140 yesterday and the day before yesterday, hitting the highest to date.

The present state of infection is at Stage II (gradual increase).  However, if this trend continues, it is anticipated to be raised to Stage III (rapid increase), which may cause shortage of beds at hospitals.

Against this background, Kanagawa Prefectural Government issued Medical Alert requesting medical institutions that accept COVID-19 patients to expand the number of their beds for the infected.

Please be reassured as hospitals accept non-COVID-19 patients, too.  If you suffer from symptoms other than COVID-19, please don’t hesitate to visit a doctor for necessary examinations and treatments. 

In order to reduce burden on the medical system, it is important not to increase infections any more.  However, the virus is spreading through various routes and to people of all ages.  It is key for each one of us to remain cautious and thoroughly practice infection prevention measures keeping in mind that the virus is always around us.

If the situation moves to Stage III or Stage IV (explosive surge), we may have to consider stronger measures such as requests to avoid outings and suspend businesses.

To avoid this, we ask for your cooperation in thorough infection prevention measures of “MASK”, which stands for
M for mask wearing in an appropriate manner,
A for alcoholic disinfection,
S for screening using acrylic boards, etc. and
K for keeping social distance and ventilating, plus humidifying in winter time.

Please also continue teleworking, staggering working hours and avoiding 3Cs of closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings.  Refrain from visiting shops and restaurants where the “List of Measures against COVID-19” is not displayed.

You may have more occasions to get together toward the end of the year.  Drinking parties and long-time dining in a large group are said to increase risk of infection.  So, refrain from having dinner in a large group.  Keep wearing a mask even when dining, except for the time of actual eating and drinking.  We would like to promote this style of dining as a new manner.

To overcome this challenge, your understanding and cooperation for our united effort to combat COVID-19 would be highly appreciated.

November 14, 2020
KUROIWA Yuji
Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture

 

• Have you ever seen “List of Measures against COVID-19 Infection”?