Japan has taken the first steps in creating a new environment that involves simply living with COVID-19.
They recently announced that this Spring, it will no longer be considered an emergency. Instead, COVID-19 will be placed in the same category as the flu.
The Post Millennial says, CNN reports that Kishida said, To advance further the efforts of living with Corona and restore Japan to a state of normalcy, we will transition the various policies and measures to date in phases.
Japans Health Ministry classifies diseases by putting them in a particular class. Right now, COVID is in Class 2. This places it in the same category as other serious diseases, such as SARS, variations of SARS, and even tuberculosis. However, once Spring hits, it will be moved to Class 5. Class 5 consists of more common ailments, such as the flu. This new classification is the lowest class a disease can be in.
Right now, those living in Japan are subject to mandates and must receive special treatment if diagnosed with COVID. Once the disease is moved to Class 5, it will be treated more like the seasonal flu, according to The Post Millennial. Mandates, such as mask mandates, may not be used for COVID. Those sick can go to their doctor or hospital to receive treatment.
However, officials are determining if COVID will be treated like other Class 5 diseases, such as the flu. They may make exceptions, such as letting people receive treatment at a hospital but requiring everyone to wear masks.
According to The Post Millennial, According to ABC, Health Minister Katsunobu Kato said, Changing its classification doesnt mean Coronavirus is gone. We still need everyone to take voluntary measures by using masks and precautions.
Japan is paving the way for other countries to take similar steps to allow everyone to return to a traditional version of society that has not been seen in years. Hopefully, other countries will follow suit.
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