Regarding COVID-19 Infection

更新日：2024年04月11日

Contents

  1. Infection Prevention Measures
  2. Testing & Consultation
  3. Vaccination
  4. Long-term Effects

Infection Prevention Measures

Basic Measures

COVID is thought to be spread primarily in close contact settings, when droplets released by an infected person via coughing, sneezing or conversation etc., are inhaled. Hence basic prevention measures are crucial.

This includes "maintaining hand hygiene through hand-washing etc.", "ventilation", and "using masks where effective" etc. While mask-wearing advisories have been revised, the cooperation of all individuals in taking precautions is still desired.

(Note) During high infection seasons, those at high risk of serious symptoms, such as the elderly, should take note to "avoid crowds and closed spaces", and "keep a distance from others".

When Are Masks Effective?

Mask-wearing is up to individual judgement.

However, it is recommended in the following scenarios:

  • When receiving a medical check-up
  • When visiting a medical or nursing facility with many high-risk patients/residents such as elderly
  • When boarding crowded trains or buses during rush hours etc.

High-risk individuals are also advised to wear masks in crowded settings, as a form of self-protection.

  • Those who have symptoms, tested positive for COVID, or have COVID-positive members in their household should avoid going out. In unavoidable situations such as medical examinations, avoid contact with others and wear a mask.
  • Staff of medical or nursing facilities where there are many high-risk patients/residents such as elderly, are advised to wear a mask at work.

Testing & Consultation

Testing for those with symptoms (fever etc.)

  • COVID treatment will fall under the regular medical system from April 2024.
  • Those with serious symptoms or at high risk (elderly and those with underlying conditions) should first call their regular doctor or after-hours doctor on duty, and seek medical examination following instructions from the medical facility.

COVID-19 Vaccination

COVID-19 Vaccination Information

Long-term Effects

Even after recovery from COVID, various after-effects may persist (what is known as "long COVID").

NIH (National Institutes of Health) Page on Long COVID