Message by Governor Kuroiwa(英語)

Today, the national government decided to lift the priority measures to prevent the spread of the disease placed on Kanagawa as of March 21.

I would like to express my deep gratitude to the prefectural citizens and business operators for providing continued cooperation during the two-month period of quasi-emergency measures since January 21.

The measures to request shorter business hours, etc. to eating and drinking establishments will also be terminated. Kanagawa Prefectural Government will lower the level of the hospital bed number for COVID-19 patients from “Special Emergency Phase” to Phase 4, and withdraw the restrictions on regular medical treatments.

Though the number of new infections is on the decline, we still see thousands of new cases every day. It is also feared that a sublineage of the Omicron variant called BA.2 might spread.

Opportunities to have contact with others will increase in the coming season when people enroll in school, start a job or transfer to a new job. However, the virus is still there. Be sure to remain on guard and continue thorough basic infection prevention measures.

Especially, when meeting with people with a high risk of developing severe symptoms, including the elderly or those with underlying illnesses, take enough precautions, such as wearing a mask even at home.

You will face an increased risk on eating and drinking occasions. If you dine out, please do so in short hours, in a small group and keep wearing a mask unless you are actually eating/drinking.

When you have a cherry blossom viewing party, take the same preventive measures and enjoy quietly.

To avoid repeated infection surge and shortage of medical resources, it is important to take thorough anti-virus actions and receive the third vaccination, which reduces the risk of severe symptoms.

I highly appreciate your continued understanding and cooperation.

 

March 17, 2022
KUROIWA Yuji
Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture