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Yesterday, the case numbers in Iwate have surpassed 400 for the first time since February 26th, setting a new all-time high of 429 new cases in one day.
Through genome testing, we also have confirmed cases of the Omicron BA.2 subvariant here in Iwate.
We have seen a trend of increasing cases across the whole country. Even neighboring prefectures have seen a trend of case numbers remaining high and increasing further.

We have seen a decrease of infection clusters in schools because of the spring break. We also saw a decreasing trend in Iwate as a whole, but in recent times, multiple clusters have been identified in workplaces and sport clubs, as well as infections within the household as a result of spread within nursery schools and kindergartens. There has been a noticeable increase in the number of cases in young people.
Also, there is an increasing number of cases where the origin is unknown.
The state of infection in the prefecture is one where anyone at any time could become a close contact or infected themselves.

In today’s meeting, situations surrounding infection and prevention measures required were reported using real life example cases.

Basic coronavirus prevention measures are effective even with the Omicron strain, so the continued implementation of measures like proper use of non-cloth masks, hand sanitization, and proper ventilation is essential.

Though I think everyone in Iwate is already well practiced in infection prevention measures at in the workplace, I once again ask that everyone be conscious of the increasing infection risk, and for the reinforcement of basic infection prevention measures.

Requests for the citizens of Iwate:
・Refrain from sending children to childcare facilities or schools if they exhibit a fever or other such symptoms.
・Excluding children who find it difficult to do so, everyone should be wearing a mask while talking with others, especially when talking to the elderly or those with underlying conditions, even when in the household.
・Wear a mask when talking even while eating together
・Please keep practicing basic coronavirus prevention measures such as refraining from engaging in high risk activities when visiting other places.

Requests for workplaces:
・The use of masks when talking during lunch time or breaks
・The use of masks and avoidance of close contact while in break rooms and changing rooms.
・The reduction of person to person contact through working from home, rotating shifts, and staggered work hours.

There are many chances to eat out with others this time of year during events such as welcome parties, so when going to restaurants, using those that have been approved by the “Iwate Restaurant Safe Practices Certification System” is recommended.

For those who wish to do so, please quickly get vaccinated.

It is important to reduce the number of infections as much as possible in order to boost socio-economic activities. Therefore I again ask everyone for their cooperation in the continued reinforcement of basic coronavirus prevention measures.