The latest information on coronavirus mutations, such as symptoms and infectivity of the Omicron strain

"Upper airway narrowing" due to dyspnea in Omicron, academic society calls attention (3/3)

March 3, 2022

In patients infected with the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus, it was found that there were multiple reports of symptoms such as swelling in the back of the throat and difficulty breathing. I made an emergency call for caution.

According to the Japanese Society of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, with the spread of Omicron strain infection, there are multiple symptoms of "upper respiratory tract narrowing," in which the back of the throat swells and the airway becomes blocked, making it difficult to breathe. , reportedly requiring throat surgery in some cases.

We do not know how often it will occur, but since there is no abnormality in the oxygen saturation level in the blood until just before, it is possible that it will be judged to be mild and the discovery will be delayed.

For this reason, the academic society made an urgent call to member doctors, etc., that there is a risk of "upper respiratory tract narrowing" with Omicron strains, and that local medical institutions should cooperate in treatment.

According to Dr. Yurika Kimura, who is in charge of the new corona countermeasure team at the academic society, many infected people are thought to be cured without having these symptoms, but they have a strong sore throat that makes them unable to swallow. If you have trouble breathing, have trouble breathing, or have a muffled voice, you should see a medical institution as soon as possible.

Dr. Kimura said, ``Until the Omicron strain came out, there were no reports of an increase in these symptoms, so we are responding with a sense of crisis.I would like to investigate the frequency of occurrence in the future.'' increase.

Back to Table of Contents

Mainstream in Japan is "BA.1.1" New Corona Omicron Stock (2/27)

February 27, 2022

About the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus When the group at Tokyo Medical and Dental University analyzed the gene of the virus, it was found that the main strain in Japan was a virus called "BA.1.1" among the Omicron strains. announced the results of the survey.

73% is "BA.1.1"

The survey was conducted by a group including Associate Professor Hiroaki Takeuchi of Tokyo Medical and Dental University.

The group analyzed the viral genes of 40 new corona patients from December 2021 to mid-February 2022, and found that about 90% were Omicron strains, and 73% of these Omicron strains were It means that it was a system called "BA.1.1".

"BA.1.1" is a virus in which "BA.1" has further mutated, and is included in "BA.1" in the domestic count, but the WHO = World Health Organization is concerned about the spread of infection. It means that it is subject to monitoring as one of the strains of the Omicron strain, along with "BA.2", which is currently in use.

Associate Professor Takeuchi said, ``In countries such as Denmark, where there were few reports of ``BA.1.1'', the replacement with ``BA.2'' was early, but looking at the situation overseas, countries where ``BA.1.1'' is the mainstream There is a possibility that replacement will be slow.The epidemic of the Omicron strain may be prolonged, and it is important to reduce the strain on medical institutions."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Decrease in infected people but increase in deaths What we learned (2/25)

February 25, 2022

The sixth wave of the spread of infection appears to have passed its peak, and has finally entered a declining phase.

However, while the speed of decline is slower than when it increased, the number of deaths is increasing at an unprecedented pace.

What are the symptoms and aftereffects of the Omicron strain?

And what about the spread of the Omicron strain "BA.2", which is a different lineage?

A summary of what I have learned.

(As of February 25, 2022)

Declining speed of “peaking out” slows down

In mid-February, the number of new coronavirus infections began to decline nationwide for the first time in two and a half months, and many regions It is on the decline.

In the 6th wave of the infection spread by the Omicron strain, the number of infected people has already exceeded 3 million since the beginning of 2022, but it seems that it has finally "peaked out".

However, the speed of decrease is slow, and the number of new infections per week is 0.88 times that of the previous week in the week leading up to February 24th.

On February 24, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expert meeting said, ``Although it is on a downward trend, the speed is slowing down, and the situation in the summer of 2021, which has continued to decrease with the acceleration of vaccination, It is different, and there is a possibility that it will turn to an increasing trend nationwide again."

Looking at trends overseas, where the infection spread before Japan, in the UK, the number of new infections in a week exceeded 1 million around January 10, and then dropped by about 40% at a stretch.

Although the number remained flat for about two weeks from mid-January, it decreased again to over 270,000 in the week leading up to February 24.

In the United States, according to the CDC = Center for Disease Control, on January 10th, the number of new infections exceeded 1.3 million per day, and the weekly average exceeded 800,000, after which it gradually declined. As of February 23, the average number of visitors per week is about 75,000.

Overseas, the vaccine booster vaccination rate is 55.8% in the UK and 28.1% in the US. It is thought that this is behind the rapid decline in (Data from Our World in Data as of February 22)

The number of deaths surpasses the 5th wave

Under these circumstances, the number of deaths in Japan continues to reach a record high.

The number of deaths reported on the 1st was 34 on January 26, 2022, about a month ago, but exceeded 100 on February 4 with 103. Also, on February 22nd, the number exceeded 300 for the first time with 322, a record high.

It continues to exceed 200 people, which was not there before the 5th wave, every day. (* On May 18, 2021, there were 216 deaths, but on this day, the number of deaths that were not reported after Hyogo Prefecture died from March to May 2021 was reported together. increase)

The number of people who died after January 2022 was 4402 by February 24th.

The number of people who died during the delta strain period was 3483 even in the four months from July to October 2021, which has already exceeded the 6th wave of infection mainly due to the Omicron strain.

The Omicron strain is said to be less severe and has a fatality rate of about 0.14%, which is lower than the previous virus.

Most of the dead are elderly, and it is said that there are many cases where the underlying disease worsens due to infection.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's summary, of the 817 people who died in about a month from January 5 to February 8, 34.4% were in their 90s or older, 36.6% were in their 80s, and 19.6% were in their 70s. , 4.0% are in their 60s, and 94.6% are in their 60s or older.

In Japan, it is said that the 5th wave in the summer of 2021, when the delta strain spread, was the timing when vaccination was advanced, so the vaccine was able to prevent the deaths of many elderly people.

Although two doses of the vaccine are effective in preventing aggravation to a certain extent, the effect diminished as time passed after vaccination, and the infection with the Omicron strain spread to the elderly, leading to severe illness. It is believed that more and more people are doing it.

In the spread of infection so far, the number of severe cases peaked about two weeks after the peak of the number of infected people, and the number of deaths has peaked after that, and there is a risk that it will increase in the future.

Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University said at an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on February 24 that the number of people who are estimated to die from the new coronavirus between December 2021 and April 23, 2022 will be I showed the estimated result that there is a possibility of 5517 people in total.

It is said that the effect of the third vaccination of the vaccine is not included in this trial calculation, but if 60% of the elderly finish the third vaccination in February, the elderly It is expected to reduce the number of deaths by 295.

Overseas, there are countries where the number of deaths is decreasing and those where it is rising again

Overseas, there are countries where the number of deaths has finally started to decrease, but there are also countries where it is increasing.

In the United States, according to CDC data, the average number of deaths reported per day has exceeded 2,000 per week for about a month since mid-January.

After peaking in early February, the number gradually decreased, falling below 2,000 in mid-February, and as of February 23, there are over 1,600.

In the UK, the average number of deaths reported per day per week was 123 in the week to 16 February, the level at the end of 2021, before deaths began to rise. i am back.

On the other hand, according to "Our World In Data", a website run by researchers from the University of Oxford, England, the number of deaths per day is up to February 23. In the week of 2020, France continues to have a high number of 233, surpassing the peak of about 110 in late August 2021 during the Delta season.

In Germany, the number of deaths decreased to an average of 140 per week in late January 2022, but the infection has spread rapidly again, and now it has increased again to 204.

What kind of people become seriously ill?

It is said that many of the people with severe symptoms are the elderly and those with underlying diseases.

At the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting on February 24, the results of an analysis of severe cases in Osaka Prefecture between December 17, 2021 and February 17, 2022 were reported.

According to this, the rate of severe illness among people with underlying diseases was 2.33%, which was significantly higher than 0.05% for those without underlying diseases.

Here, patients with underlying diseases with a high risk of aggravation include diabetes, heart disease, respiratory diseases such as COPD = chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, patients undergoing dialysis, and immunosuppressants. and patients using anticancer drugs.

By age group, less than 1% of people in their teens to 40s had severe symptoms even if they had underlying diseases, while ▽1.25% in their 50s, ▽2.14% in their 60s, ▽ 3.71% in their 70s, 3.38% in their 80s, 1.63% in their 90s, and 4.00% in their 100s.

The mortality rate was 0.04% in the absence of underlying disease and 2.82% in the presence of underlying disease.

In addition, at the expert meeting, data on the rate of severe cases and deaths in Hiroshima Prefecture was also reported.

As a result, the percentage of people who were mildly ill when the infection was found became severe or died was 0.4% in the 6th wave, which was lower than 0.8% in the 5th wave.

The percentage of patients with mild symptoms at first who developed severe symptoms or died was ▽ 4.4% for those aged 80 and over, ▽ 2.1% for diabetes, ▽ 2.7% for heart and blood vessel disease, and ▽ COPD. and 5.5%, ▽ cancer was 2.3%, and ▽ dementia was 3.7%.

``BA.2'' 0.6% by January... It is a mutated virus called .2.

Infection in the community has been reported in Japan as well.

The Omicron strain "BA.1", which is spreading around the world, is missing a part of the "spike protein" on the surface of the virus, but "BA.2" has this part. I know there are no missing pieces.

Omicron strains may not be detected by the testing methods used in some parts of the world, and are sometimes called "stealth omicrons." It is said that the name does not fit.

However, it is necessary to analyze the genetic information to distinguish between "BA.1" and "BA.2".

According to the survey results announced on February 16 by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, a total of 94 cases of "BA.2" were reported nationwide from the end of 2021 to January 30. It is said that the ratio of Omicron strains to the total is about 0.6%, but it is said that it is a provisional result because genetic analysis may take time.

Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University, who specializes in theoretical epidemiology, said after an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare held on February 24, regarding the analysis of BA.2, "To date, 'BA. 2” has not been grasped in real time.A partial sample survey is enough, so a nationwide survey is necessary.”

How contagious is BA.2? What about exacerbation?

"BA.2" is considered to be even more infectious.

According to a laboratory under the Danish health authority, "BA.2" was about 20% of the new coronaviruses detected in Denmark in the last week of 2021. It is said that it was about 66% in one week from the middle to the end of January 2022.

In addition, according to the British health authorities, the number of mutated viruses that are considered to be "BA.2" in the UK also increased from 5.1% on January 24, 2022 to 18.7% on February 6. I'm doing it.

The interval between the onset of symptoms in one infected person and the onset of symptoms in the next infected person was an average of 4.09 days for the delta strain, but for the Omicron strain "BA.1". The average is 3.72 days, and ``BA.2'' averages 3.27 days, which is about half a day shorter than ``BA.1'', which may be related to the rapid spread of infection.

On the other hand, a group at Tokyo Medical and Dental University analyzed 40 people infected with the Omicron strain in Japan, and found that more than 70% were "BA.1.1", a virus of the "BA.1" lineage. Announced.

In countries where ``BA.1'' is the mainstream, such as Denmark, replacement with ``BA.2'' progressed quickly, while in countries where ``BA.1.1'' is the mainstream, replacement may be slow. I think we need to continue to analyze.

An expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said on February 24, ``There are no signs so far, but we need to be careful about the possibility that infections will increase again due to replacement in the future.''

There are also reports from overseas that ``BA.2'' has no difference in the risk of hospitalization.

According to a report from a Danish laboratory, there is no difference in the risk of hospitalization, and 47 cases of reinfection with "BA.2" after being infected with "BA.1" have been reported, but most In the younger generation who had not been vaccinated, the symptoms were mild and no one was hospitalized.

British health authorities say data is still limited, but no cases of reinfection with BA.2 after being infected with BA.1 have been reported.

In addition, WHO states that there is no evidence that the risk of aggravation with ``BA.2'' is higher than that with ``BA.1''.

Regarding the effectiveness of the vaccine, the British health authorities said that the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing the onset was 9% for "BA.1" after more than 25 weeks and about half a year after the second vaccination. , 13% for "BA.2", ▽ Two weeks after the third booster vaccination, 63% for "BA.1" and 70% for "BA.2", there is no difference in the effectiveness of the vaccine. I don't think so.

Easy to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract Cough, throat, and nasal symptoms For , the risk of reaching the lungs and becoming severe is lower than other mutant viruses.

As of January 24, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has released data on more than 3,600 people registered in the HER-SYS system, which aggregates information on people infected with the new coronavirus.

At the time of notification, the symptoms seen in Omicron strains were ▽ fever 66.6%, ▽ cough 41.6%, ▽ general malaise 22.5%, ▽ headache 21.1%, ▽ respiratory symptoms other than cough 12.9%. %, 2.7% for nausea and vomiting, and 2.3% for diarrhea.

So far, 0.8% of people complained of olfactory and taste disorders, which are characteristic of the new coronavirus.

Other surveys in Japan and overseas also show symptoms of coughing, sore throat, runny nose, and stuffy nose. People who are plagued by this call to see a medical institution as soon as possible before symptoms appear.

Sequences of the Omicron strain Verification is yet to come

Although there is increasing interest in each country about the degree of aftereffects after being infected with the Omicron strain, it is not yet clear.

The sequelae of the new coronavirus, called ``Long COVID,'' are described by WHO as ``symptoms that begin three months after the onset of symptoms and last for at least two months.''

With the conventional new coronavirus, about 10% to 20% of those who have experienced infection have aftereffects such as malaise, shortness of breath, and cognitive impairment, and it is said that it "generally affects daily life." increase.

In addition, "There seems to be no relationship between the severity of the initial infection and whether sequelae will appear later."

It has only been more than three months since the Omicron strain was first reported in South Africa, and it is expected that the aftereffects will be verified in the future.

Debate after Omicron strain

On January 26, a group of experts who provide scientific advice on infectious disease control to the British government announced their medium- to long-term outlook for the future. issued a summary statement.

In it, although it is difficult to predict new mutant viruses, it is almost certain that the epidemic wave will come again in the future, and the pathogenicity will not necessarily be reduced.

And it may be years before the epidemic can be predicted, and it is necessary to maintain monitoring and surveillance mechanisms to understand and report the infection situation. .

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc., such as infectivity and pathogenicity I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

▽ Infectiousness According to the WHO weekly report, the Omicron strain is easier to spread than the mutated virus so far.

▽The pathogenic Omicron strain is said to have a lower risk of hospitalization and aggravation than the Delta strain.

However, the scale of the spread of infection is large, and the number of hospitalized patients and the number of people with severe symptoms is increasing, and the burden on medical institutions is increasing.

▽Risk of re-infection According to the WHO, the Omicron strain has mutations that make it easier for people with immunity from vaccines or past infections to become re-infected.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▽Vaccine effectiveness (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine) For the Omicron strain, the effectiveness of the vaccine decreases, but it is said that the effectiveness increases again with the third booster dose of the vaccine.

According to the data of the British health authorities, the mRNA vaccine of Pfizer and Moderna for Omicron strain decreased to about 10% after 20 weeks from the second vaccination, but Pfizer or Moderna's After booster vaccination, the efficacy of preventing the onset increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

The effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

According to data from the CDC in the United States, the effectiveness of Pfizer and Moderna's "mRNA vaccine" in preventing hospitalization compared to unvaccinated people was higher than that after the third booster vaccination during the delta strain period. Then, it was 96% up to 2 months, and 76% even after 4 months or more.

At the time of the Omicron strain, the effect of preventing hospitalization was 71% within 2 months from the second vaccination, and 54% after 5 months or more, but the third vaccination was performed. The effect of preventing hospitalization also increased for Omicron strains, 91% within 2 months after vaccination, and 78% even after 4 to 5 months.

The CDC says the third dose is important and those who have not been vaccinated should get the vaccine as soon as possible.

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in the infection to prevent the effects of therapeutic drugs from becoming severe, is said to be less effective, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not recommend administration for Omicron strains.

On the other hand, the oral drug “Lagebrio” (generic name molnupiravir) for mild patients, the newly approved “Pakilovid pack (generic name nilmatrelvir/ritonavir)”, and mild to severe cases It is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses, such as the administered "remdesivir", will not be affected.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Experts

Future prospects Takaji Wakita, chairman of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said after the meeting on February 24 that the number of new infections could continue to decline. , which will lead to an improvement in the medical situation, but it is currently on a declining trend.In the future, if there is a slight chance, such as increased opportunities for people to come into contact with each other, it will increase again and lead to a burden on medical care. It is very important to improve the infection situation and keep it going."

In addition, Specially Appointed Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with overseas infectious diseases, said about "BA.2", "At the moment," BA.2 "is not considered to be spreading in Japan. There have been no reports from overseas that 'BA.2' has resulted in an increase in the number of severely ill patients or that the vaccine has become less effective than 'BA.1', so it is thought that there will be no change as a countermeasure. There are countries where the disease spreads and countries where it does not. I need to go,” he says.

Countermeasures remain the same

Even with the Omicron strain, the route of infection remains the same. Mostly small splashes.

There is also a contact infection by touching the nose or mouth with a virus-covered hand.

Even with the Omicron strain, infection through eating and drinking, such as a year-end party with colleagues at a restaurant or dinner with relatives at home, was observed, and there were cases of infection through work in a close environment at work. has also been reported.

Shigeru Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, said that there were much more infections than expected when the mask was removed or when the "nose mask" was not worn enough, so the non-woven mask was used to cover the nose. I am calling for you.

In addition to vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expert meeting has spread the infection at events where many people gather. We are calling for thorough infection control measures such as avoiding even one crowd, avoiding crowded places and places with a high risk of infection when going out, and wearing a non-woven mask properly, disinfecting hands, and ventilating.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain rapidly worsens in 40s, but “Thorough vaccination and countermeasures” (2/24)

February 24, 2022

In the 6th wave of the spread of the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus, it was said that most of the elderly became severely ill, but in Tokyo hospitals that have been treating severely ill patients, 40 Some people in their 50s and 50s have suddenly worsened respiratory conditions and become severe, so doctors are appealing for additional vaccinations and thorough infection control.

At the National Center for Global Health and Medicine, which plays a central role in the treatment of severely ill patients with the new coronavirus, around 40 to 50 people have been hospitalized since the beginning of February, and around 5 of them have been hospitalized. is serious and has been increasing in the last two weeks.

After January 2022, when the Omicron strain spread, many elderly people in their 70s and older were infected and their chronic diseases worsened and became severe. It is said that it is not only the elderly who become seriously ill, such as two people in their 50s who have become severely ill with pneumonia caused by the new coronavirus itself.

Shinichiro Morioka, a doctor at the center, said, "I've seen people in their 50s and 40s who have underlying diseases or who haven't been vaccinated even once due to corona pneumonia, and their respiratory conditions suddenly worsen. The number of new infections in Tokyo has peaked out, but the severity of the disease is increasing, and I am afraid that the peak will come in the future. It is important to not underestimate the Omicron strain, but to treat it as one's own thing, first to get two doses of the vaccine and a third booster dose, and to live while paying attention to infection control. I will."

Back to Table of Contents

"BA.2" 94 cases reported in Japan About 0.6% of all Omicron strains NIID (2/23)

February 23, 2022

According to a survey conducted by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, etc., at least 94 cases have been reported in Japan regarding the Omicron strain "BA.2", a type of the new coronavirus. It represents approximately 0.6% of Omicron's total shares.

According to a survey by genetic analysis of the new coronavirus conducted by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, etc., as of February 16th, the Omicron strain "BA.2" virus will be released from the end of 2021. By January 30, a total of 94 cases have been reported nationwide.

On the other hand, more than 16,000 cases of the "BA.1" virus, which is currently the mainstream of the epidemic, were detected during the same period, and the proportion of "BA.2" among all Omicron strains is That's about 0.6%.

However, it is said that it is a provisional result because it takes time to report genetic analysis, and that the ratio may differ from region to region.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases will continue to monitor the trends of "BA.2" through genetic research.

Expert ``In the future, sufficient monitoring is necessary''

Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with overseas infectious diseases, regarding the domestic situation of the Omicron strain "BA.2" The specially appointed professor said, ``As far as the survey results are concerned, it seems that 'BA.2' is not spreading in Japan at this point. There have been no reports that the vaccine has become less effective than BA.1, and it is thought that there will be no change as a countermeasure. The reason is still unknown, and we cannot deny the possibility that the epidemic will prolong if it spreads in Japan, so we need to strengthen our surveillance."

Further research is needed, but ``BA.2'' may have stronger symptoms than ``BA.1''

When a group such as a university conducted an experiment using cultured cells, it was found that it may have a stronger ability to cause symptoms than the currently mainstream "BA.1".

This was published on the Internet as a "pre-peer-reviewed paper" before being checked by a third party by a group led by Associate Professor Kei Sato of the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo.

The group artificially created a virus that reproduced the characteristics of the spike protein of "BA.2", infected cultured cells, and investigated the reaction.

As a result, the virus that reproduced ``BA.2'' had a weaker ability to destroy surrounding cells when infected, but it was 1.5 times higher than ``BA.1''. about it.

Furthermore, in the experiment of infecting hamsters, the virus was not detected in the lungs of ``BA.1'' and weight loss did not occur. A trend toward weight loss was observed.

In the group, since it was an experiment with an artificially created virus, further research was needed to determine what the actual symptoms would be, and ``BA.2'' was stronger than ``BA.1''. I think it can cause symptoms.

Associate Professor Sato said, "Experiments suggest that BA.2 has different characteristics. These two viruses may need to be treated as separate viruses." increase.

Overseas studies reported no difference in hospitalization risk

In overseas studies such as Denmark, ``BA.2'' compared to ``BA.1'' in hospitalization risk, etc. are reported to be missing.

According to Associate Professor Kei Sato, the report on the risk of hospitalization from overseas is data while the third vaccination is progressing to a certain extent, and the vaccine can prevent aggravation. It means that there is a possibility that

Since the results of this research are experiments with cultured cells and animals using an artificially reproduced virus, it is necessary to carefully judge what kind of symptoms will occur in actual humans, but the virus As a characteristic of itself, "BA.2" is more likely to cause symptoms that lead to aggravation than "BA.1", so caution is required.

Back to Table of Contents

Confirmation of infection of 13 people with Omicron strain "BA.2" in Osaka Prefecture 3 people are community-acquired (2/22)

February 22, 2022

As a result of genome analysis of patients confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus, Osaka Prefecture has so far identified 13 people as being a type of Omicron strain with higher infectivity "BA.2". announced that it was confirmed to be infected with a virus called ". Of these, the route of infection was unknown for three of them, and they are believed to be community-acquired.

"BA.2" is a type of Omicron strain, and it is a virus of a strain different from the one that is currently prevalent.

Regarding this, Governor Yoshimura of Osaka Prefecture told reporters on February 22 that the results of genome analysis of more than 3,000 patients in the prefecture who were confirmed to be infected with the new corona were confirmed on February 21. A total of 13 people were confirmed to be infected by the day.

Of these, three people confirmed between February 16th and 18th had no history of traveling abroad, and the route of infection was unknown, so they were thought to be community-acquired, so Governor Yoshimura said, " We are aware that there is a high possibility that community-acquired infections will spread in the future," he said.

On the other hand, Governor Yoshimura received doctors and nurses dispatched from the national government and opened a temporary medical facility for the elderly in a hotel in Osaka city. announced that it had started

Also, in the next few days, we will start operating two lodging facilities exclusively for the elderly, and announced a policy to accept elderly patients with a total of 600 beds in the three facilities.

Governor Yoshimura said, ``We want to prevent aggravation by providing early treatment to the elderly. .

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron symptoms, aftereffects, peak is now known (2/16)

February 16, 2022

The number of new infections with the rapidly expanding new coronavirus is beginning to decrease nationwide.

However, the speed of decrease is slow, and the number of severe cases and deaths continues to increase.

What are the symptoms and aftereffects of the Omicron strain? And what about the point that experts have started to hear that "infection has peaked out"?

A summary of what I have learned.

(As of February 16, 2022)

The number of infected people more than doubled in half the period of the delta strain

In the 6th wave of the spread of infection due to the Omicron strain, the number of new infections has continued to increase for over a month. rice field.

The number of infected people was about 900,000 in the three months from July to September, even in the fifth wave of infection in the summer of 2021, when the delta strain spread.

In the 6th wave, the number exceeded 2.3 million in a month and a half since the beginning of this year.

The number of infected people has more than doubled in half the period of the delta strain, and the infection has spread significantly.

By mid-February 2022, we began to see a downward trend in the number of reported cases. As of February 15, the number of new infections nationwide in a week compared to the previous week was 0.90 times, and experts began to point out that ``infections have passed the peak.''

In Okinawa Prefecture, where the infection spread earlier in Japan, the average number of infected people per week peaked at about 1440 on January 18th, and then declined.

However, even on February 15th, there were about 560 people.

In the first two weeks of January, the number of infected people surged 40 times at a stretch, but in the following month, although it was less than half of the peak, the speed of decreasing was slow. has become

Looking at trends overseas, where the infection spread before Japan, in the UK, the number of new infections in a week exceeded 1 million around January 10th, and then 1 until January 18th. There were about 674,000 people for the week, a decrease of about 40% compared to the previous week.

After that, the number remained flat for about two weeks, but in the week until February 15, it decreased again to over 368,000.

In the United States, according to the CDC = Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of new infections exceeded 1.3 million per day on January 10, with an average of over 800,000 per week.

After that, it gradually declined, and as of February 14, the average number of new infections per week was over 146,000, which is decreasing.

Overseas, the vaccine booster vaccination rate is 55.5% in the United Kingdom and 27.7% in the United States. It is thought that it may be behind the rapid decrease. (Data as of February 14, Our World in Data)

The number of deaths may exceed the 5th wave

The number of infected people in Japan was about 233 in the month and a half from January 2022 when the Omicron strain spread to February 15. 7,000 people.

During this time, 2367 people have died, giving a fatality rate of approximately 0.10%.

The Omicron strain has been said to be less likely to become severe, but because the scale of infection is so large, the number of severe cases and the number of deaths are also increasing.

The number of deaths reported on the first day was 34 on January 26, 2022, three weeks ago, but on February 4th, it was 103 and over 100, and on February 159 people on the 8th, and 236 people on February 15th, which is the highest number ever.

It continues to be higher than the 89 people on September 8, 2021, which was the highest when Delta strains spread.

In the spread of infection so far, the number of severe cases and the number of deaths peaked about two weeks after the peak of the number of infected people.

During the Delta stock season, 3073 people died in the three months from August to October 2021, and there is a possibility that Omicron stocks will surpass them in the sixth wave.

In Japan, it is said that the 5th wave in the summer of 2021, when the delta strain spread, was the timing when vaccination was advanced, so the vaccine was able to prevent the deaths of many elderly people.

Although two doses of the vaccine are effective in preventing aggravation to a certain extent, the infection with the Omicron strain spreads to the elderly and becomes severe as time passes after the vaccination and the effect diminishes. It is believed that the number of people is increasing.

The occupancy rate of hospital beds is increasing day by day, and as of February 15, it is 84.3% in Osaka Prefecture and 58.8% in Tokyo.

In Okinawa Prefecture, it is decreasing little by little at 48%.

In addition, there are cases where it is difficult to transport emergency patients other than the new coronavirus, and according to a summary by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, there are four or more inquiries to the hospital before the patient's transport destination is decided. The number of "difficult to transport cases" was 5740 in the week ending February 13, a record high for five consecutive weeks.

In the United States, the number of reported deaths has continued to exceed 2,000 per day, except on weekends when reports are low, according to CDC data.

The CDC says that although the severity of the Omicron strain is low, the number of hospitalized patients is increasing, placing a burden on the medical system and causing a considerable number of deaths.

According to "Our World In Data," a website run by researchers from the University of Oxford, England, the number of deaths per day was 1 by February 14. During the week, there are more than 2,300 people in the United States, more than 320 people in France, and more than 150 people in Japan.

At the time of the delta stock, ▽ in the United States, about 2000 people in late September 2021, ▽ in France, about 110 people in late August, peaked, and now exceeds the level at that time.

Denmark, which has relaxed movement restrictions, has a population of about 5.81 million, which is about the same size as Hyogo Prefecture, but the number of deaths reported per day was 41 on February 14, so far. It is in line with the January 2021 level, which was the highest in Denmark.

What kind of people become seriously ill?

It is said that many of the people with severe symptoms are the elderly and those with underlying diseases.

According to the materials presented at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, from January 1 to 20, 2022, the percentage of pneumonia that worsened and became "moderate 2" or higher, which requires oxygen administration, was , 0.09% in those without risk factors for severe disease, but 1.22% in those with risk factors, more than 13 times higher.

Risk factors include "chronic obstructive pulmonary disease", "diabetes", "dyslipidemia", "hypertension", "chronic kidney disease", "cancer", and "obesity". , "Smoking", the rate of moderate 2 or higher is ▽ 1 risk factor 0.81%, ▽ 2 2.13%, ▽ 3 3.63%, ▽ 4 or more 4.70% was getting higher.

Also, by age, ▽ people under 40 who have at least one risk factor are 0.155%, ▽ 0.37% in their 40s, ▽ 0.61% ▽ 50 to 64 years old, ▽ 65 years old or older. and 4.43%, which increased with age.

Boost vaccination increases hospitalization risk ↓

New data has been published by the CDC regarding the effectiveness of booster vaccination.

The CDC has data on approximately 240,000 emergency room visits and approximately 93,000 hospitalizations at hospitals across the United States from late August 2021 to late January 2022. In addition, the results of an analysis of the efficacy of the vaccine for people aged 18 and over were announced in the weekly report dated February 11.

Accordingly, compared to unvaccinated people, the effect of preventing hospitalization with Pfizer and Moderna's "mRNA vaccine" was 2 to 2 after the third booster vaccination during the delta strain period. It was 96% until the month, and 76% even after 4 months or more.

At the time of the Omicron strain, the effect of preventing hospitalization was 71% from the second vaccination to 2 months, and 54% after 5 months or more. When administered, the effect of preventing hospitalization also increased for Omicron strains, with 91% within 2 months of vaccination and 78% within 4 to 5 months.

The CDC says the third dose is important and those who have not been vaccinated should get the vaccine as soon as possible.

It is easy to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, and symptoms of cough, throat, and nose

Regarding the Omicron strain, WHO = World Health Organization, although it is prone to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, for many people says that the risk of reaching the lungs and becoming severe is lower than other mutant viruses.

As of January 24, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has released data on more than 3,600 people registered in the HER-SYS system, which aggregates information on people infected with the new coronavirus.

At the time of notification, the symptoms seen in Omicron strains were ▽ fever 66.6%, ▽ cough 41.6%, ▽ general malaise 22.5%, ▽ headache 21.1%, ▽ respiratory symptoms other than cough 12.9%. %, 2.7% for nausea and vomiting, and 2.3% for diarrhea.

So far, 0.8% of people complained of olfactory and taste disorders, which are characteristic of the new coronavirus.

Other surveys in Japan and overseas also show symptoms of coughing, sore throat, runny nose, and stuffy nose. People who are plagued by this call to see a medical institution as soon as possible before symptoms appear.

Infections in children and the elderly are increasing

Infections in children and the elderly are increasing with the Omicron strain.

According to the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of new infections under the age of 10 was ▽ 149 in the week until December 28, 2021, but ▽ 353 by January 4, 2022. ▽ 2238 people by January 11, ▽ 12,947 people by January 18, ▽ 41,863 people by January 25, ▽ 67,564 people by February 1, ▽ February By the 8th, the number continues to increase to 76,856.

In the United States, approximately 4.5 million children have been infected since the beginning of 2022.

The number of new infections among children in the week ending February 10 was approximately 300,000, a significant decrease from the peak of approximately 1.15 million in the week ending January 20.

Still, it's more than it was during the Delta stock period.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports a 0.1 to 1.5% rate of severe illness leading to hospitalization in children and a 0 to 0.01% mortality rate.

In addition, the number of infected elderly people is also increasing.

The number of infected people over 60 was ▽ 379 in the week until December 28, 2021, ▽ 513 by January 4, 2022, and ▽ 3685 by January 11. People, ▽ 13,867 by January 18, ▽ 35,500 by January 25, ▽ 60,732 by February 1, ▽ 75,969 by February 8 It is

The overwhelming majority of those who die are elderly, and according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's summary, of the 817 people who died in about a month from January 5 to February 8, ▽ 34.4% are in their 90s or older. ▽ 36.6% in their 80s, ▽ 19.6% in their 70s, ▽ 4.0% in their 60s, and ▽ 94.6% in their 60s and over.

Shigeru Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, said on February 10, ``With the Omicron strain, the place of infection is diversifying not only in restaurants but also in homes and workplaces. There is a polarizing focus on the elderly, and some people are becoming seriously ill.There is a need for a medical and health care system that focuses on those who are at risk of becoming seriously ill. It is necessary to shift to a wide range of countermeasures," he said.

Aftereffects of the Omicron strain Verification is still to come

It is not yet known how many aftereffects will occur after being infected with the Omicron strain.

The sequelae of the new coronavirus, called ``Long COVID,'' are described by WHO as ``symptoms that begin three months after the onset of symptoms and last for at least two months.''

With the conventional new coronavirus, about 10% to 20% of those who have experienced infection have aftereffects such as malaise, shortness of breath, and cognitive impairment, and it is said that it "generally affects daily life." increase.

In addition, "There seems to be no relationship between the severity of the initial infection and whether sequelae will appear later."

It has only been about three months since the Omicron strain was first reported in South Africa, and research into its sequelae has yet to begin.

Interest is growing overseas, and verification is expected to progress.

What we learned from ``BA.2''

A mutant virus called ``BA.2'', which is one of the strains of the Omicron strain, has been reported not only in quarantine but also in the public in Japan. is starting to be

However, according to the materials presented by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting on February 15, as of the first week of February, "sustained replacement has not been observed." is.

The Omicron strain "BA.1", which is spreading around the world, is missing a part of the "spike protein" on the surface of the virus, but "BA.2" has this part. I know there are no missing pieces.

Omicron strains may not be detected by the testing methods used in some parts of the world, and are sometimes called "stealth omicrons." It is said that the name does not fit.

"BA.2" is believed to be even more infectious.

According to a laboratory under the Danish health authority, "BA.2" was about 20% of the new coronaviruses detected in Denmark in the last week of 2021. It is said that it was about 66% in one week from the middle to the end of January 2022.

According to the British health authorities, the number of mutated viruses that are considered to be "BA.2" in the UK was 5.1% on January 24, 2022, but increased to 18.7% on February 6. increase.

During this period, "BA.1" decreased from 94.9% on January 24th to 81.3% on February 6th.

The interval between the onset of symptoms in one infected person and the onset of symptoms in the next infected person was an average of 4.09 days for the delta strain, but for the Omicron strain "BA.1". The average is 3.72 days, and ``BA.2'' averages 3.27 days, which is about half a day shorter than ``BA.1'', which may be related to the rapid spread of infection.

On the other hand, although the data is still limited, there have been no reported cases of reinfection with BA.2 after being infected with BA.1.

Experts say that due to the effects of "BA.2", the number of infections may not be reduced.

According to WHO, there is no evidence that the risk of aggravation with BA.2 is higher than with BA.1.

Also, regarding the effect of the vaccine, the British health authorities said that the effect of preventing the onset of the disease with the vaccine was 9% for ``BA. , 13% for ``BA.2'' and 2 weeks after the third booster, 63% for ``BA.1'' and 70% for ``BA.2'', showing no difference in efficacy of the vaccine. I'm doing it.

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc., such as infectivity and pathogenicity I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

▼Infectivity

The WHO weekly report states that the Omicron strain spreads more easily than previous mutant viruses.

▼Virulence

The risk of hospitalization and the risk of aggravation are said to be lower with the Omicron strain than with the Delta strain.

However, the scale of the spread of infection is large, and the number of hospitalized patients and the number of people with severe symptoms is increasing, and the burden on medical institutions is increasing.

▼Risk of re-infection

The WHO states that the Omicron strain has mutations that make it easier for people with immunity from vaccines or past infections to be re-infected.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▼Effects of Vaccine (Pfizer Moderna mRNA Vaccine)

According to data from the UK health authorities, the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines are effective against Omicron strains after two vaccinations. After 20 weeks, it decreased to about 10%, but when booster vaccination with Pfizer or Moderna was administered, the effect of preventing the onset increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

The effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

▼Effects of therapeutic agents

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in an infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not recommend administering it to Omicron strains. I'm doing it.

On the other hand, the oral drug “Lagebrio (generic name molnupiravir)” for mild patients, the newly approved “Pakilobid pack (generic name nilmatrevir/ritonavir)”, and patients with mild to severe symptoms are being administered. It is thought that oral drugs that prevent the proliferation of viruses, such as Remdesivir, are not affected.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Experts

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said, "The expansion trend is now calming down, but it remains high in many areas. However, it is necessary to pay a little more attention to whether or not it will really enter a declining phase.Even with the Omicron strain, the number of people who become seriously ill and die is increasing, especially among elderly people over the age of 75. Because there are still many cases of infection at facilities for the elderly. , How fast the third vaccination can be done in such places is also an important point in the future."

In addition, Dr. Yuuki Furuse, who is an advisor to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's cluster countermeasures team and is familiar with mathematical models, said, "I think the peak of the infection situation has been seen. However, in March, people will graduate, enter the school, join the company, transfer, and meet with people at welcome and farewell parties. The season is coming when the number of infected people will increase, so there is a possibility that the epidemic will continue for a long time without the number of infected people decreasing, or that the 7th wave will start soon. It is said that even if you are infected with the Omicron strain, you will not develop good immunity, so I would like you to get vaccinated even now."

Countermeasures remain the same

As the situation continues where it is possible to be infected anywhere, experts are calling for more thorough countermeasures.

Even with the Omicron strain, the route of infection has not changed, and infection by droplets, mainly tiny droplets floating in a sealed room called "micro droplets" or "aerosols", is the main method.

There is also a contact infection by touching the nose or mouth with a virus-covered hand.

Even with the Omicron strain, infection through eating and drinking, such as a year-end party with colleagues at a restaurant or dinner with relatives at home, was observed, and there were cases of infection through work in a close environment at work. has also been reported.

Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, said that there were much more infections than expected when the mask was removed or when the ``nose mask'' was not worn enough, so I want the non-woven mask to cover the nose. I'm calling.

In addition to vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

Is Omicron strain entering Japan by at least four routes? NIID analyzes (2/13)

February 13, 2022

When the National Institute of Infectious Diseases analyzed the genetic information of the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus detected in Japan in detail, it was found that it may have entered the country through at least four routes so far. rice field.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has analyzed 2650 cases of the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus for which detailed genetic information has been reported in Japan by January 17th.

As a result, it was found that there are at least four groups of Omicron strains in Japan, each of which may have come from overseas via different routes.

One of these is the main epidemic virus in the country, and it is the same or close lineage of viruses that are often detected in the United States.

In addition, the virus that spread throughout the country, including the Kanto region after being confirmed in the Kyushu region, is the same or similar to the strain detected in the United States and the United Kingdom, and the virus that spread in the Kanto and Tohoku regions is Europe and the United Kingdom. It means that it is a type close to the lineage that is often detected in Asia.

On the other hand, the virus that was widely detected in the Kansai region from late December 2021 has not spread since then, and it is believed that it has been contained by measures such as cluster measures.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases says, ``By analyzing the results of genetic information analysis in conjunction with epidemiological surveys, it is believed that it will be useful to deepen our understanding of the infection route of the Omicron strain and the mechanism of the spread of infection.'' .

Back to Table of Contents

Influences of BA.2, an increase in severe cases of Omicron strains, have been clarified (2/9)

February 9, 2022

Omicron strain, which has been said to be less likely to become severe. However, as the number of infected people continues to reach a record high, the number of seriously ill patients continues to increase.

The number of reported deaths per day is over 100, more than the peak during the fifth wave of infections when the Delta strain spread.

What kind of people are getting seriously ill?

Is the effect of the priority measures to prevent the spread of infection, which was issued for the purpose of suppressing the infection, also appearing in the Omicron strain?

What is the impact of the different lineage of Omicron strain "BA.2", which has begun to be reported in Japan, on the infection status?

A summary of what I have learned.

(As of February 9, 2022)

The number of deaths per day surpasses the period of the delta strain

The spread of the new coronavirus caused by the Omicron strain.

Although the pace of expansion has slowed slightly, it remains at a record level.

The number of deaths reported per day was 34 two weeks ago on January 26, 2022, but increased to 103 on February 4, exceeding 100, and in February On the 9th, we updated the record with 162 people.

This is more than the 89 people on September 8, 2021, which was the highest number in the summer of 2021 when the delta strain spread.

In the United States, the CDC = Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the number of deaths reported each day continues to exceed 2,000, excluding weekends when reports are low.

The CDC says that although the severity of the Omicron strain is low, the number of hospitalized patients is increasing, placing a burden on the medical system and causing a considerable number of deaths.

According to "Our World In Data," a website run by researchers from the University of Oxford, England, the number of deaths per day was 1 by February 8. in the week

▽There are about 2,500 people in the United States, about 330 people in France, and about 100 people in Japan.

At the time of the delta stock, ▽ around 2000 people in late September 2021 in the United States, and around 110 people in late August in France, which has now exceeded the level at that time.

The scale of infection is too "large" even if it is unlikely to become severe

The number of severely ill patients continues to increase.

As of February 8, 2022, the number of severely ill patients in Japan has reached 1141.

This is the same level of 1138 people on August 8, 2021, when the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics was held.

At this time, a state of emergency was declared in six prefectures.

About the Omicron strain, the WHO = World Health Organization says that although it is likely to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, for many people the risk of reaching the lungs and becoming severe is lower than other mutant viruses. increase.

According to a report presented at an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on February 9, 2022, during the period of the sixth wave in Osaka Prefecture, nearly 200,000 infected people were reported by February 5. When analyzed, the severity rate is 0 points and 08%.

At the same expert meeting, the results of an analysis of the symptoms of 2,214 people infected by January 31 in the "Miyako-Yaeyama medical area" in Okinawa were also reported, with 0% severe cases and moderate cases requiring oxygen administration. Case 2 was 1.9%, moderate case 1 with shortness of breath and pneumonia was 3.6%, and mild or no symptoms were 94.5%.

Although the rate of becoming severe is low, the scale of infection is so large that the number of severe cases is increasing and putting pressure on the medical system.

It is said that the fifth wave of infection in the summer of 2021, when the delta strain spread, was at a time when vaccination was advanced, so the vaccine could prevent the deaths of many elderly people.

Although two doses of the vaccine are effective in preventing aggravation to a certain extent, the infection of the Omicron strain spreads and the number of people who become severely ill increases as time passes after the vaccination and the effect wears off. It is believed that

The occupancy rate of hospital beds is increasing day by day, and as of February 8, it is 81.4% in Osaka, 57.8% in Okinawa, and 55.8% in Tokyo.

In addition, there are cases where it is difficult to transport general emergency patients other than the new coronavirus, and university hospitals that treat the most severe emergency patients in Tokyo can only accept about 60% of the usual patients. The place is also coming out.

What kind of people become seriously ill?

It is said that many of the people who have become seriously ill are the elderly and those with underlying diseases.

According to the materials presented at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, from January 1 to 20, 2022, the percentage of pneumonia that worsened and became "moderate 2" or higher, which requires oxygen administration, was , 0.09% in those without risk factors for severe disease, but 1.22% in those with risk factors, more than 13 times higher.

Risk factors include:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Diabetes, Dyslipidemia, Hypertension, Chronic Kidney Disease, Cancer, Obesity, Smoking, Moderate 2 or higher The percentage of those with one risk factor was 0.81%, two were 2.13%, three were 3.63%, and four or more were 4.70%.

Also, by age, ▽ 0.155% for those under 40 who have at least one risk factor ▽ 0.37% for those in their 40s ▽ 0.61% for those aged 50 to 64 ▽ 4.43% for those aged 65 and over It got higher with age.

Additional vaccination increases the risk of hospitalization ↓

It is believed that additional vaccination is effective even for the Omicron strain.

On January 21, the CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States announced an analysis result that the effect of preventing hospitalization increased to 90% for Omicron strains.

If more than 6 months have passed since the second vaccination of Pfizer or Moderna's "mRNA vaccine", the effect of preventing hospitalization was 81% when the Delta strain was dominant, while the Omicron strain was dominant. 57% at the time.

However, after the third inoculation, the Delta time increased to 94% and the Omicron time increased to 90%.

Individuals who did not receive the booster vaccine were also significantly more likely to be hospitalized than those who received the booster vaccine, 44 times more likely for those aged 50 to 64 and 49 times more likely for those aged 65 and older. The analysis is also published.

The CDC says a third dose is important to prevent symptoms from worsening, and those who haven't been vaccinated should get the vaccine as soon as possible.

It is prone to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, and symptoms of coughing, throat, and nose

The Omicron strain has a different tendency to symptoms than the Delta strain.

As of January 24, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has released data on more than 3,600 people registered in the HER-SYS system, which aggregates information on people infected with the new coronavirus.

At the time of notification, the symptoms seen in Omicron strains were ▽ Fever 66.6% ▽ Cough 41.6% ▽ General malaise 22.5% ▽ Headache 21.1% ▽ Respiratory symptoms other than coughing 12.9% ▽ Nausea Vomiting accounted for 2.7% and diarrhea accounted for 2.3%.

So far, 0.8% of people complained of olfactory and taste disorders, which are characteristic of the new coronavirus.

In addition, according to the results of a detailed epidemiological survey of 122 people by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 45.1% had a cough, 32.8% had a fever of 37 degrees and 5 minutes or more, 32.8% had a sore throat, and 20.5% had nasal discharge. In Japan, olfactory disorders and gustatory disorders were each around 1%.

More people complain of sore throats and fewer people complain of no smell or taste.

In addition, since there are also symptoms of runny nose and nasal congestion, the Japanese Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery recommends that people who suffer from hay fever every year should consult a medical institution as soon as possible before symptoms appear. I am calling you.

The speed of the spread of infection has slowed down after the priority measures...

As a countermeasure against the spread of infection by the Omicron strain, priority measures such as the spread prevention have already been applied to the three prefectures of Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Yamaguchi. Months later, it has been nearly three weeks since it was expanded to the Tokyo metropolitan area.

According to the data presented at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, the number of people in the downtown area at night was as of late January.

▽In Okinawa Prefecture, the number has decreased by half compared to December 2021, in Hiroshima Prefecture it has decreased by half, and in Yamaguchi Prefecture it has decreased by 30%.

In addition, in Tokyo, it decreased by more than 30%, and in Aichi prefecture it decreased by about 30%.

In the three prefectures where the first priority measures were issued, the number of infections has been decreasing. However, in many areas, the speed of the spread of infection has only slowed down.

In Okinawa, the highest number of infected people in a day so far was 1829 on January 15th, when it was nearly 700 per 100,000 population.

Since then, it has decreased, but as of February 8, more than three weeks later, there are still more than 290 people per 100,000 population.

It is finally below the peak of 320 people in the summer of 2021 when the delta stock spread.

The speed of the infection is slowing down, but according to the data presented by Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University at the expert meeting on February 2, it is believed that the peak has passed in Okinawa Prefecture.

In addition, according to the data released on February 9, the effective reproduction number, which indicates how many people one person spreads to, falls to around "1" in the Tokyo metropolitan area and Osaka, and exceeds "2". There has been a downward trend since early January 2022.

Overseas, in the UK, the number of new infections per week exceeded 1 million around January 10th, and about 674,000 in the week until January 18th, compared to the previous number. About 40% less than the week.

After that, after a flat trend for a while, the number decreased again to over 509,000 in the week until February 8th.

Highly contagious? What we learned from ``BA.2''

On the other hand, ``BA.2'', one of the Omicron strain strains, is being watched as it may affect the infection status. A mutated virus called

In Japan, it has started to be reported not only in quarantine but also in Kobe City and Tokyo.

The Omicron strain "BA.1", which is spreading around the world, is missing a part of the "spike protein" on the surface of the virus, but "BA.2" has this part. I know there are no missing pieces.

Omicron strains may not be detected by some testing methods used overseas, and are sometimes called "Stealth Omicron". It is said that the name does not fit.

"BA.2" is considered to be highly infectious.

According to a laboratory under the Danish health authority, "BA.2" was about 20% of the new coronaviruses detected in Denmark in the last week of 2021, but by 2022 It is said that it was about 66% in one week from mid-January to late January.

In addition, as a result of analyzing infections at home for about a month until mid-January 2021, the rate of secondary infection at home was 29% for ``BA.1'' and ``BA.2''. So it was 39%, and it is said that it may spread more easily.

On the other hand, although the proportion of "BA.2" is increasing in Denmark's neighbors Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom, it is said that it remains at about 10% to 20% of the total Omicron stock.

Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University said, "Due to the influence of the epidemic of" BA.2 ", the epidemic curve in Denmark has become like a two-stage epidemic, and the number of infected people in South Africa has decreased and then started to rise again. Even if the number of infected people begins to decline, there is a risk that it will rise or spread in the future.Uncovering the mechanism is more important in predicting the strain on the medical system."

On the other hand, it is believed that the risk of aggravation in ``BA.2'' is the same as that in ``BA.1''.

A group at the International University of Health and Welfare that treated 22 patients infected with "BA.2" announced on February 7 that all had mild or no symptoms.

Although most of them were vaccinated and there were no people at risk of becoming severe, the treatment policy itself seems to be the same as "BA.1".

British health authorities say that the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing the onset of

After 25 weeks or more from the second vaccination, 9% of "BA.1", 13% of "BA.2",

Two weeks after the third booster vaccination, 63% of ``BA.1'' and 70% of ``BA.2'' showed no difference in the effectiveness of the vaccine.

Spread of infection among children Concern in each country

With the Omicron strain, the spread of infection among children, which had been rare until now, continues.

According to the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of new infections under the age of 10 was 149 in the week until December 28, 2021, but by January 4, 2022, 353 and 1. By January 11th, there were 2238 people, 12,947 people by January 18th, 41,863 people by January 25th, and 67,564 people by February 1st.

In the United States, about 4.2 million children have been confirmed to be infected in 2022.

More than 630,000 new cases in children in the week ending February 3rd, although declining, are more than double the peak during the Delta season.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports a 0.1 to 1.5% rate of severe illness leading to hospitalization in children and a 0 to 0.01% mortality rate.

Even in Japan, the age for vaccination has been lowered to 5 years old.

In Pfizer's clinical trial, it was 90.7% effective in preventing the onset of symptoms between the ages of 5 and 11, and the symptoms that appeared after vaccination were generally mild to moderate.

Comparison with previous mutant viruses

What we know so far, such as infectivity and pathogenicity, is based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and public institutions in each country. I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

▼Infectivity

In the WHO weekly report, the Omicron strain spreads more easily than previous mutant viruses.

▼Virulence

The risk of hospitalization and the risk of aggravation are said to be lower with the Omicron strain than with the Delta strain.

However, the scale of the spread of infection is large, and the number of hospitalized patients and the number of people with severe symptoms is increasing, and the burden on medical institutions is increasing.

▼Risk of re-infection

The WHO states that the Omicron strain has mutations that make it easier for people with immunity from vaccines or past infections to be re-infected.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▼Effects of vaccines (Pfizer Moderna mRNA vaccine)

According to data from the UK health authorities, for Omicron strains, Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines are effective after two doses of vaccination. After 20 weeks, it decreased to about 10%, but when booster vaccination with Pfizer or Moderna was administered, the effect of preventing the onset increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

The effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

▼Effects of therapeutic agents

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in an infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not recommend administering it to Omicron strains. I'm doing it.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral drugs that prevent the proliferation of viruses, such as "Lagebrio (generic name molnupiravir)" for mild patients and "Remdesivir" for patients with moderate or higher symptoms, will not be affected. It is

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Experts

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said, "The Omicron strain reduces the risk of serious illness and death for many people, but , Especially those over the age of 75 are at risk, and if the infection spreads to the elderly, more people may die than the 5th wave last summer.In the future, at the end of the fiscal year in March and the new fiscal year in April, The timing is approaching when contact with people will increase significantly again.By then, it is necessary to give at least the third vaccination to the elderly aged 65 and over as soon as possible."

Countermeasures remain the same

In the current situation of the spread of infection, experts are calling for more thorough countermeasures.

The infection route of the Omicron strain remains the same as before, and infection by droplets, "micro droplets" and "aerosols", which are very small droplets that float in a sealed room, are the main sources of infection.

There is also a contact infection by touching the nose or mouth with a virus-covered hand.

Even with the Omicron strain, infection through eating and drinking, such as a year-end party with colleagues at a restaurant or dinner with relatives at home, was observed, and there were cases of infection through work in a close environment at work. has also been reported.

Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, said that there were much more infections than expected when the mask was removed or when the ``nose mask'' was not worn enough, so I want the non-woven mask to cover the nose. I'm calling.

In addition to vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutation site different from conventional strain in ``BA.2'' genome analysis of Omicron strain (2/7)

February 7, 2022

A mutated virus called "BA.2" that is one of the strains of the Omicron strain and is spreading in some countries overseas. When a virology specialist at a university in Tokyo examined the patient's genetic information, it was found that although there were more than 30 mutations in the Omicron strain, the number of mutations was quite different. This patient had no history of traveling abroad and was suspected of community-acquired infection. If this spreads, there is a possibility that the 6th wave will be prolonged."

Associate Professor Hiroaki Takeuchi of Tokyo Medical and Dental University conducted genome analysis of a patient who was infected with "BA.2", one of the strains of Omicron strain, and was treated at this hospital. BA.1" was analyzed.

As a result, there were more than 30 mutations in the "spike protein", which is the key that the virus binds to human cells, as with the conventional Omicron strain, but the mutation sites were quite different. is.

The upper row is the conventional Omicron strain “BA.1”, the lower row is “BA.2”, and the purple and other mutations are shown.

If you take a closer look, you can see that there are both the "N501Y" mutation, which is the same as the Alpha strain, and the "H655Y" mutation, which has been found in recent research to affect the strength of the Omicron strain's infectivity. Nine mutations, such as "T19I," that were not found in conventional Omicron strains, were also confirmed.

Associate Professor Takeuchi said, ``There may be mutations that determine the superiority of ``BA.2'' in the transmission of infection in places where the mutations are different. I assume there is.

In addition, although the patient who was analyzed was under the age of 65 and had mild symptoms, he had no history of traveling abroad, the route of infection was unknown, and he was suspected of community-acquired infection.

Associate Professor Takeuchi said, "The beginning of the community infection of" BA.2 ", a situation similar to that is occurring, and the possibility that the Omicron strain will affect the convergence of the 6th wave cannot be denied. It is necessary to stop the spread of new mutant strains in the market so that it does not prolong."

Back to Table of Contents

What you need to know if you become a close contact with Omicron (2/3)

February 3, 2022

The infection of the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus continues to spread rapidly. On February 3, the number of confirmed infections reached a record high, and the cumulative total so far has exceeded 3 million.

"I became a close contact person", "a family member or a person who lives with me became a close contact person", isn't there a lot of people like that now...?

If you become a close contact person, you will be required to wait at home for a certain period of time. How many days do you have to wait? what about family and life? We've compiled the latest information on these and other questions.

■Definition of close contact

A close contact is a person who may have been infected due to close or prolonged contact with an infected person. According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, etc., the important points when determining whether a person has close contact are as follows.

[Period of contact] ・ Until 10 days after the onset of symptoms when the infected person no longer excretes the virus (7 days after the specimen is collected for testing if the infected person is asymptomatic)

[Guidelines for contact]-If you touch an infected person without wearing a mask, or if you touch an infected person within a distance that you can reach if you reach out to each other for more than 15 minutes. such as when there is a possibility of direct contact with

If you have an infected person in your family or if you are taking care of an infected person, it seems that this guideline applies.

●Cases that are not considered close contacts However, if strict infection prevention measures such as those taken at medical institutions and nursing homes are taken, they are not considered close contacts. In addition, even if the contact lasted for more than 15 minutes, it depends on the specific circumstances of the place, such as whether the person was talking, whether the environment was one where people sang songs or shouted loudly, and whether there was sufficient ventilation. It depends on whether or not you are judged as a person.

■Public health centers also make decisions...

Public health centers made the decision as to whether or not they were close contacts, but the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has the flexibility to respond to local conditions if the infection situation worsens. I am allowed to make judgments. For this reason, as the infection spreads, there are more and more areas where public health centers are prioritizing places with a high risk of becoming seriously ill, such as facilities for the elderly and medical institutions.

Family members living together with an infected person "Respond as a close contact person"

It means that we are calling to respond as.

Also, at schools and companies where infected people have been confirmed, each school or company determines whether they are close contacts. We are asking people who are considered to be in close contact with us to contact us (* See: Osaka Prefecture, regarding measures to be taken if there is a possibility of close contact with a positive person).

■In principle, the waiting period is 7 days

Based on the latest scientific knowledge such as the incubation period of the Omicron strain, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare initially set the waiting period at home for close contacts in January. from 14 days to 7 days.

In other words, you will be required to wait at home for 7 days, starting with the day you last came into contact with an infected person. However, so-called "essential workers" such as medical workers can be lifted from the 5th day if a negative result is confirmed with a domestically approved antigen test kit on the 4th and 5th days at the discretion of the local government. is.

● “Take measures until 10 days after waiting for 7 days” According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, if you are infected with the Omicron strain, the probability of developing symptoms by the 7th day is 94.5%, and by the 10th day The probability of developing the disease is 99.2%. In other words, it is said that the risk of about 5% remains in the 7-day waiting period.

For this reason, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare recommends that you check your health condition by yourself until 10 days after the standby is lifted, avoid high-risk places and dinners, and wear masks. We are asking for thorough infection control.

■ A family member living with an infected person becomes a close contact

If a family member living together becomes infected, the "last contact date" is when the infected person is hospitalized or in a private room. It is said to be the day he was quarantined.

However, if the infected person is a young child or a person who needs nursing care, it is difficult to thoroughly isolate them while recuperating at home. In such cases, until now, the family members who became close contacts were required to wait at home for an additional 7 days, as a general rule, with the day after the treatment of the infected person finished as day 0.

Regarding this, on February 2nd, the government shortened the period of waiting at home if a family member living with an infected person became a close contact. As a result, if infection control measures are taken at home, the waiting period will be 7 days after the infected person develops symptoms (the day of onset is counted as 0 days).

It gets a little complicated, but here are the details:

1. How long will you wait?

1. The date the infected person developed symptoms 2. The date the specimen was collected if the infected person was asymptomatic 3. The date the infection was discovered and infection control measures were taken

The latest day among these 1 to 3 is day 0. From there, you will have to wait at home for 7 days and then be lifted on the 8th day.

●What is infection control? According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the infection control assumed this time is not a strict isolation such as completely separating rooms and eliminating all contact. Specifically, it is done as follows (to the extent possible in daily life). ▽Wearing a mask ▽Washing hands and disinfecting hands ▽Avoid sharing supplies ▽Implementation of disinfection, etc.

In addition, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, if it is difficult for young children to thoroughly wear masks, measures such as thorough hand washing and avoiding sharing towels can be considered. In addition, it is necessary to take basic infection control measures as much as possible, such as ventilation and avoiding contact as much as possible.

2. What if another family member develops symptoms during the waiting period?

If a family other than the one who was first found to be infected is confirmed to be infected during the waiting period, the number of days will be recounted.

3. What if my child gets infected?

[In case of mild illness and waiting at home] Consider the case where infection control measures are taken at home immediately. The child's onset date is day 0, and the family will be on standby at home for 7 days. And it will be lifted on the 8th day. In addition, if the infected child himself/herself is 10 days from the date of onset of 0 days, and 72 hours have passed since the symptoms subsided, the medical treatment will be completed without being tested. Please consult with

[Asymptomatic] An infected child can be released from medical treatment 7 days after the specimen is collected. Also, for those who have had close contact with the infected child, the 7-day stay-at-home period starts from the day when the infected child collected the specimen (if infection control measures have been taken at home from the day the specimen was collected). In other words, it is possible that both the infected child and the family can be released at the same time. However, if you are asymptomatic at first but develop symptoms later, the date of onset will be recounted as day 0.

Early measures may lead to an early cancellation of the stay-at-home order. Stay-at-home orders for contacts may be lifted sooner.

4. What is your normal life like after the lockdown?

If the stay-at-home order for close contacts is lifted, they will be able to commute to work or school. However, until the end of the recuperation period of the infected person, it is necessary to check the health condition by yourself, such as checking the temperature for fever, and to avoid using high-risk places and eating together (* recuperation). Regardless of the period or waiting period, it is necessary to continue general infection control measures.)

■Staying at home

When you are at home, refrain from going out as much as possible if it is not necessary or urgent, and if you have no choice but to go out, take infection control measures such as wearing a mask and washing your hands. and to avoid contact with other people. It also means that you need to refrain from commuting to work or school.

The epidemic of the Omicron strain has become mainstream, and the period has been shortened, but it is said that the mechanism and scene of infection even with the Omicron strain do not change, so the contents of the countermeasures while waiting at home are also basic. essentially no change.

The Infectious Disease Control Department, which is in charge of the new corona measures in Tokyo, is doing the following. ▽Refrain from going out unnecessarily and stay at home instead of going to work or school ▽While waiting, take your temperature twice a day in the morning and in the evening to check if you are feeling well ▽Symptoms such as fever and cough If you do, see your family doctor or a medical institution that can test and treat the new coronavirus ▽Avoid using public transportation as much as possible

However, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare says that when taking the exam, you can take the exam at a venue where the necessary measures have been taken based on the guidelines, and in that case you are allowed to go out.

If you have been in close contact with someone, it is important to think that you may be infected and act until the specified period has passed For those who have become infected with the new coronavirus ~If you think you are a close contact person~").

■If a family member has a close contact

If a family member has a close contact According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Infectious Diseases Control Department, "a close contact of a close contact" Since there is no concept, the actions of all family members are not restricted except for those who have been in close contact, and the government has not restricted their actions."

However, there are cases where the workplace or school has its own rules, so I would like you to discuss with the company or school and follow the rules.

Of course, there is a possibility that a close contact person may develop symptoms while waiting and find out that they were actually infected. In case you are infected, please pay attention to the following during the waiting period for the family members who have become close contacts.

▽Avoid sharing towels in the home, stagger mealtimes, etc., and live in separate spaces ▽Observe cough etiquette by wearing a mask, etc. ▽Doorknobs Disinfection of frequently touched items such as TV remote controls ▽ Ventilate regularly

● “Be careful” It is said that the Omicron strain has a lower rate of becoming seriously ill, so you may think of it more lightly than before, but it is still important for the elderly and the basics. There have been reports around the world of people with serious illnesses, especially those with illnesses. Be vigilant, especially if you have family members who are at high risk of severe illness, such as those with underlying medical conditions or who are elderly.

■Confirmation of family infection "Thorough conventional measures can prevent infection"

According to a survey by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the initial analysis results show that the infection rate of the Omicron strain in the home is It means that it is about 30% to 45%, which may be higher than Delta stocks.

However, in this survey, the infection route of the Omicron strain was the same as that of the new coronavirus so far, and it was mainly infection by flying infection and so-called "micro flying (including aerosol)" in poorly ventilated places. Therefore, it is thought that it can be prevented by thoroughly implementing conventional infection control measures.

In the illustration calling for attention created by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the following precautions are taken when an infected person appears in the family.

1. Separate rooms2. Open windows for ventilation3. Wear a mask4.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “Even if you mask the distance” Fugaku simulation (2/2)

February 2, 2022

In a study using the supercomputer "Fugaku", it was found that the risk of infection of the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus increases when talking within 50 cm even when wearing a mask.

Research teams such as RIKEN in Kobe City are studying the spread of the new coronavirus using the supercomputer "Fugaku".

This time, in order to investigate the influence of the Omicron strain, which is said to be more infectious than the conventional strain, we assume that it is 1.5 times more infectious than the Delta strain, based on the cluster situation that has occurred so far. I simulated.

As a result, the average probability of infection when talking face-to-face with an infected person for 15 minutes was almost 0% at a distance of 1 meter or more when the infected person was wearing a mask, but 50%. It increased to about 14% at a distance of less than a centimeter, and it is necessary to keep a sufficient distance even when wearing a mask and talking.

On the other hand, if the infected person was not wearing a mask, it was about 60% at a distance of 1 meter, and almost 100% at a distance of 50 cm.

In addition, in a simulation of talking to the person sitting next to you at the event, if the infected person wore a mask, the person next to you would be 40%, and if the infected person was not wearing a mask, the people around you would be 50%. A close probability of infection was confirmed.

On the other hand, if you sit at a distance, the risk of infection is kept low.

From the results of this study, the research team pointed out that the risk of infection is low if you wear a mask and keep a sufficient distance in school classes, etc. It is said that one of the countermeasures is to divide it into multiple parts in a short time so as not to do it.

Makoto Tsubokura, team leader of RIKEN, said, "In addition to wearing a mask, it is important to go back to the starting point and think about contact time and conversation distance with people."

Back to Table of Contents

What are the symptoms of the Omicron strain? What is the peak? What I've Learned (2/2)

February 2, 2022

The rapid spread of infection by the Omicron strain is spreading all over the country. Although the risk of aggravation is low, the number of hospitalized patients and the number of deaths are increasing, and the shortage of hospital beds is approaching a serious situation in various places. Initially, there was an observation that the infection spread rapidly and then dropped sharply.

Also, of the Omicron strains, will the different lineage virus "BA.2" affect the infection situation in the future? Will we see the peak of the infection, and how long will there be a lot of infected people? I have summarized what I have learned. (As of February 2, 2022)

Initial Symptoms Cough, throat, and nasal symptoms

The number of infected people reported daily nationwide continues to hit a record high every day.

Among the new coronaviruses detected in Japan, 99% of the viruses suspected to be Omicron strains nationwide as of January 30 are believed to have been replaced by Omicron strains.

It has been found that the symptoms of the Omicron strain are different from those of the Delta strain.

As of January 24, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has compiled data from more than 3,600 people registered in the HER-SYS system, which aggregates information on people infected with the new coronavirus.

According to that, the symptoms seen in Omicron strain at the time of notification were ▽ fever 66.6%, ▽ cough 41.6%, ▽ general malaise 22.5%, ▽ headache 21.1%, ▽ breathing other than coughing. Organ symptoms accounted for 12.9%, vomiting and vomiting accounted for 2.7%, and diarrhea accounted for 2.3%. Until now, 0.8% of people complained of olfactory and taste disorders, which are characteristic of the new coronavirus.

In addition, according to the results of a detailed epidemiological survey of 122 people by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 45.1% had a cough, 32.8% had a fever of 37°C and 5 minutes or more, 32.8% had a sore throat, ▽ Nasal discharge accounted for 20.5%, and olfactory and dysgeusia accounted for around 1% each.

More people complain of sore throats and fewer people complain of no smell or taste.

In addition, since there are also symptoms of runny nose and nasal congestion, the Japanese Society of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery recommends that people who suffer from hay fever every year should consult a medical institution as soon as possible before symptoms appear. I am calling you.

Even though it spreads rapidly, the speed of decline is slow

Omicron strains have a short incubation period, and the period from when a person is infected to when they infect others is called "generation time." ” is only about 2 days, and it is thought that the infection spreads rapidly because it spreads one after another in a short time.

For that reason, there was also an observation that it would decrease rapidly when the infection decreased. However, this is no longer the case.

In the UK, the number of new infections per week exceeded 1 million around January 10th, and then about 674,000 in the week until January 18th, compared to the previous week. decreased by approximately 40%.

However, after that, the number of people remained almost flat, and even in the week until February 1, there were more than 638,000 people.

In Okinawa, where the infection spread first in Japan, the highest number of infected people in a day so far was 1829 on January 15, at which time it was nearly 700 per 100,000 population. was

Since then, it has decreased slightly, but even after more than two weeks, the number of people per 100,000 people is still over 400, which is still higher than the peak in the summer of 2021 when delta stocks spread.

Compared to the speed at which the infection spread rapidly, the speed of decline is gradual.

An expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said on January 26, ``It is believed that the spread of infection will continue nationwide at least in the short term.''

The risk of aggravation ↓ is also a reality of medical urgency

WHO = The World Health Organization states that although Omicron strains are prone to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, they reach the lungs and become severe. The risk is lower than other mutant viruses.

However, because the number of infected people is so high, many countries are calling for caution, saying that the number of hospitalizations is increasing rapidly and the medical system is overwhelmed.

Even in Japan, the number of infected people is so large that the number of people who become seriously ill and die is increasing, and the medical crisis is becoming a reality.

In Okinawa Prefecture, where the infection spread at the earliest in Japan, the infection is spreading to elderly people who are at risk of becoming seriously ill, and the proportion of infected people in their 60s and older is 1 by January 30. It is gradually rising to 18.6% in the week.

The occupancy rate of hospital beds is increasing day by day, and as of February 1, it is 69% in Osaka, 67% in Okinawa, and 50.7% in Tokyo.

In Okinawa Prefecture, 33.6% of hospital beds are used for severe cases.

On January 25, the CDC in the United States announced that the conventional new coronavirus spread around January 2021, the Delta strain expanded around August 2021, and the Omicron strain expanded this time. We published a report comparing the medical situation based on a database.

According to that, the peak number of infected people per week was about 250,000 when the conventional strain expanded, and 164,000 during the Delta strain, but during the Omicron strain period, In mid-January 2022, the number was nearly 800,000, which was several times larger.

On the other hand, the peak number of hospitalized patients is about 21,600 per week during the Omicron strain period, ▽ about 16,500 during the conventional strain period, and ▽ about 10,000 during the Delta strain period. More than 2300 people. During the Omicron stock period, the number of under 18s increased significantly, 4.4 times more than the conventional stock period and 2.87 times more than the delta stock period.

The peak number of deaths was 1854 per week during the Omicron strain period, which was lower than the 3422 during the conventional strain period and the 1924 during the delta strain period. .

The CDC says that although the severity is low, the number of hospitalized patients is increasing, placing a burden on the medical system and causing a considerable number of deaths.

British health officials say the risk of hospitalization for Omicron strain is one-third that of Delta strain.

However, in the UK, as of January 31, 2022, 64.9% of people (over 12 years old) had received the third booster, and as of February 2nd, 4.0% of the total population. Caution is required because the situation is different from Japan, which remains in Japan.

The number of deaths is also increasing worldwide

According to "Our World In Data," a website run by researchers from the University of Oxford in England, the number of deaths per day was In the week leading up to the 1st, there were more than 2,500 people in the United States, about 260 people in France, and 45 people in Japan.

At the time of the delta stock, ▽ in the United States, about 2000 people in late September 2021, ▽ in France, about 110 people in late August, peaked, and now exceeds the level at that time. Also, in Japan, 89 people were reported to have died on September 8, 2021 during the delta stock season, but 70 deaths were reported on February 1, 2022, which is not an optimistic situation.

Omicron stock derived? What we learned from ``BA.2''

We are also concerned about the status of a mutant virus called ``BA.2'', which is one of the strains of the Omicron strain.

Currently, in the Omicron strain "BA.1", which is spreading all over the world, there is a part missing in the protrusion part "spike protein" on the surface of the virus, but in "BA.2" We know that this missing piece is missing.

In Europe, this part is used as a mark to detect Omicron strains, so there are cases where "BA.2" cannot be found, and some media call it "Stealth Omicron".

On the other hand, in Japan, we are investigating whether there is another mutation called "L452R".

This mutation is seen in the Delta strain and others, but not in the Omicron strain.

Currently, the new coronavirus found in Japan is the Delta strain or the Omicron strain, so if a virus without this mutation is found, it is suspected of being the Omicron strain, and a detailed genetic test is performed to check if it is the Omicron strain. I'm here.

For this reason, it is said that the term "stealth omicron" is not correct in Japan because it can be detected by Japanese inspections.

In Japan, this virus has been detected in people who have traveled to India and the Philippines.

"BA.2" Information from Denmark ~Possibility of more spread~

According to a research institute under Danish health authorities, "BA.2" will be released by the end of 2021. In the week of 2022, about 20% of the new coronaviruses detected in Denmark were about 45% in the week of mid-January 2022.

In addition, on January 31, we published the results of an analysis of household infections in Denmark for about a month until mid-January 2021.

The rate of secondary infection at home was 29% for ``BA.1'' and 39% for ``BA.2'', suggesting that it may spread more easily.

"BA.2" Information from the UK ~ No difference in vaccine efficacy~

British health authorities have positioned "BA.2" as a "mutant virus under investigation".

In the data shown on January 28, 1072 cases were found by the 24th, and although it may be overestimated in the data at the early stage, the speed of infection spread from "BA.1" is expected to be faster.

The effect of preventing the onset of the vaccine by the vaccine was 9% for ``BA.1'' after 25 weeks or more and about half a year or more after the second vaccination was 13% for ``BA.2'', ▽ 3rd time Two weeks after the booster vaccination, 63% of ``BA.1'' and 70% of ``BA.2'' showed no difference in the effectiveness of the vaccine. In addition, there is no data on the severity of infection, and further analysis is underway.

Investigations and analyzes are continuing in each country about the impact of "BA.2" on the spread of infection, and no conclusions have been reached so far.

Additional vaccination increases the risk of hospitalization ↓

It is believed that additional vaccination with the Omicron strain is effective, but on January 21, the U.S. CDC = Disease Control The center has published an analysis showing that the effectiveness in preventing hospitalization rises to 90% even for the Omicron strain.

If more than 6 months have passed since the second vaccination of Pfizer or Moderna's "mRNA vaccine", the effect of preventing hospitalization was 81% when the Delta strain was dominant, while the Omicron strain was dominant. 57% at the time.

However, after the third inoculation, the Delta time increased to 94% and the Omicron time increased to 90%.

Individuals who did not receive the booster vaccine were also significantly more likely to be hospitalized than those who received the booster vaccine, 44 times more likely for those aged 50 to 64 and 49 times more likely for those aged 65 and older. The analysis is also published.

The CDC says a third dose is important to prevent symptoms from worsening, and those who haven't been vaccinated should get the vaccine as soon as possible.

Expansion of infection among children Concern in each country

With the Omicron strain, the spread of infection among children, which had been rare until now, continues.

According to the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of new infections under the age of 10 was 149 in the week until December 28, 2021, but by January 4, 2022, 353 and 1. By January 11th, there were 2,238 people, by January 18th, 12,947 people, and by January 25th, 41,863 people.

In the United States, more than 3.5 million children were confirmed to be infected during the month of January 2022.

More than 800,000 new cases in children in the week ending Jan. 27 were down from about 1.15 million in the week before, but still the peak of the delta season. It's about three times.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports a 0.1 to 1.5% rate of severe illness leading to hospitalization in children and a 0 to 0.02% mortality rate.

In Japan, the age for vaccination has been lowered to 5 years old.

In Pfizer's clinical trial, it was 90.7% effective in preventing the onset of symptoms between the ages of 5 and 11, and the symptoms that appeared after vaccination were generally mild to moderate.

Comparison with previous mutant viruses

What we know so far, such as infectivity and pathogenicity, is based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and public institutions in each country. I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

"Alpha stocks" (First reported in the UK in December 2020) "Beta stocks" (First reported in South Africa in December 2020) "Gamma stocks" (Reported in January 2021 Expanded in Brazil) "Delta stocks" (Same lineage first reported in India in October 2020) "Omicron strain" (First reported in South Africa in November 2021)

▼Infectivity

"Alpha strain"↑"Beta strain"↑"Gamma strain"↑"Delta strain"↑↑"Omicron strain"↑↑↑

In the WHO weekly report, we introduced the results of an analysis in Denmark in December 2021 that the "secondary infection rate" in the household was 21% for the Delta strain and 31% for the Omicron strain. increase.

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States has data that the infectivity of the Omicron strain is up to three times that of the Delta strain.

▼Pathogenicity

"Alpha strain" Possibility of high risk of hospitalization, aggravation, and death "Beta strain" Possibility of high hospitalization risk and mortality rate "Gamma strain" Possibility of hospitalization and death Possibility of high risk of aggravation "Delta strain" High risk of hospitalization "Omicron strain" Low risk of hospitalization and aggravation

The Omicron strain is said to have a lower risk of hospitalization and aggravation than the Delta strain.

However, the scale of the spread of infection is large, and the number of hospitalized patients and people with severe symptoms is increasing, and the burden on medical institutions is increasing.

▼Risk of re-infection

"Alpha strain" Antibody activity to suppress virus is maintained, risk of reinfection is the same as conventional strain or "Beta strain" Antibody activity to suppress virus is reduced "Gamma strain" The activity of the virus-suppressing antibody is slightly reduced "Delta strain" The activity of the virus-suppressing antibody is reduced "Omicron strain" The risk of reinfection increases

The WHO says that there are mutations that make it easier to reinfect even those who are immune from vaccines or past infections.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▼ Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

"Alpha strain" does not change in prevention of infection, onset, or aggravation "Beta strain" does not change in prevention of onset or severity "Gamma strain" infection prevention, onset prevention, and prevention of aggravation remain unchanged. There are also reports that the preventive effect is reduced and that it is effective in preventing aggravation.There is also a report that the third vaccination is effective in preventing onset and severity.

According to the data of the British health authorities, the mRNA vaccine of Pfizer and Moderna for Omicron strain decreased to about 10% after 20 weeks from the second vaccination, but Pfizer or Moderna's After booster vaccination, the efficacy of preventing the onset increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

The effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

▼Effects of therapeutic agents

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in an infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not recommend administering it to Omicron strains. I'm doing it.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral drugs that prevent the proliferation of viruses, such as "Lagebrio (generic name molnupiravir)" for mild patients and "Remdesivir" for patients with moderate or higher symptoms, will not be affected. It is

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Experts

Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with the situation of infections overseas, said, "The number of infected people has increased, and among them, a certain number of people have become severe and died. Currently, more than 2,000 people die every day in the U.S. Considering the number of infected people, the death rate is about 0.5%, which is clearly higher than that of influenza.The peak of the increase in deaths is the number of infected people. The number of deaths in Japan is likely to increase in the future, and if the number of infected people is kept to a minimum, the number of deaths will also be kept to a minimum. It's important to take measures while considering that the number of people who do it will increase."

Countermeasures remain the same

The countermeasures we can take remain unchanged, but experts are calling for more thorough countermeasures in the current situation of rapid spread of infection. increase.

The infection route of the Omicron strain has not changed, and it is mainly small droplets called "micro-flies" that float in a closed room. There is also contact infection by

According to the results of an epidemiological survey released by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases on January 13, even Omicron strains were infected through eating and drinking, such as year-end parties with colleagues at restaurants and dinners with relatives at home. In addition, cases of infection through working in a close environment at work have also been reported.

Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, said that there were much more infections than expected when the mask was removed or when the ``nose mask'' was not worn enough, so I want the non-woven mask to cover the nose. I'm calling.

In addition to vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

What you need to know if you become a close contact with Omicron (1/31)

January 31, 2022

The Omicron strain of the new coronavirus, which continues to spread rapidly.

I think there are many people who have become close contacts, or who have become close contacts of family members or people who live with them.

What is the definition of close contact?

How many days are you staying at home?

We have summarized the latest information.

What is the definition of close contact?

A close contact is a person who may have been infected by contacting an infected person at close range or for a long time.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the important points for determining whether a person is in close contact are as follows.

The period of contact is until 10 days after the onset of symptoms when the infected person stops shedding the virus (7 days after the sample for testing is collected if the infected person is asymptomatic).

The guideline for contact is when you touch an infected person without wearing a mask, or when you touch each other for more than 15 minutes at a distance that you can reach if you reach out to each other. This includes the possibility of direct contact with an object that has been contaminated with bodily fluids of an infected person.

If you have an infected person in your family or if you are taking care of an infected person, this guideline is likely to apply, but as is done in medical institutions and nursing facilities, If infection prevention measures have been taken, they are not considered close contacts.

In addition, even if the contact lasted for more than 15 minutes, it was necessary to check whether there was a conversation, whether it was an environment where people sang songs or shouted loudly, whether there was sufficient ventilation, etc. Depending on the specific situation, it will change whether it is judged as a close contact.

How long do I have to stay at home?

Based on the latest scientific knowledge such as the incubation period of the Omicron strain, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has decided to extend the waiting period at home for close contacts from the 14th to the 14th. shortened to 10 days.

In addition, as of January 28, we have shortened this period to seven days.

For this reason, you will be required to wait at home for 7 days, starting with the last day you came into contact with an infected person.

According to the Tokyo metropolitan government, if a family member living together is infected, the date the infected person was hospitalized or isolated in a private room is the ``last contact date''.

However, if the infected person is a young child and cannot be isolated in a separate room, the day when the infected person's medical treatment ends will be the ``last contact date'', and 7 days after that, that is, up to 17 days (*if the infected person has symptoms).

For so-called "essential workers" such as medical workers, according to the judgment of the local government, ▽ If the antigen test kit approved in Japan on the 4th and 5th day is confirmed to be negative, it will be 5 days. I hope I can get it out of my sight.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, if infected with the Omicron strain, the probability of developing symptoms by the 7th day is 94.5%, and the probability of developing symptoms by the 10th day is 99.2%.

In other words, it is said that the risk of about 5% remains in the 7-day waiting period.

For this reason, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare recommends that you check your own health conditions such as temperature measurement, avoid high-risk places and dinners, and wear masks until 10 days after the standby is lifted. We are requesting thorough infection control such as

How should I spend my stay at home?

When staying at home, refrain from going out as much as possible if it is not necessary or urgent, and if you have no choice but to go out, take infection control measures such as wearing a mask and washing your hands to avoid contact with others. It is said that

It means that you need to refrain from commuting to work or school.

The epidemic of the Omicron strain has become mainstream and the period has been shortened, but it is said that the mechanism and scene of infection even with the Omicron strain do not change, so the contents of the countermeasures while waiting at home Basically no change.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Infectious Disease Control Department, which is in charge of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's new corona measures, does the following.

▽Refrain from going out unnecessarily, and wait at home instead of going to work or school. ▽During the standby period, take your temperature twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, to check for any abnormalities in your physical condition. ▽ If you have symptoms such as fever and cough, visit your family doctor or a medical institution that can test and treat the new corona. ▽ Avoid using public transportation as much as possible.

However, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare says that when taking the exam, you can take the exam at a venue where the necessary measures have been taken based on the guidelines, and in that case you are allowed to go out.

If you become a close contact person, it is important to think that you may be infected and act until the specified period has passed.

What if someone in your family comes into close contact with you?

In the event that a family member comes into close contact with someone, according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Infectious Diseases Control Department, ``Since there is no concept of ``a close contact of a close contact,'' All members of the family are not restricted in their activities except for , and the government does not restrict their activities either."

However, since there are cases where the workplace or school has its own rules, I would like you to discuss with the company or school and follow the rules.

Of course, there is a possibility that a close contact person may develop symptoms while waiting and find out that they were actually infected.

In preparation for the unlikely event that they are infected, during the waiting period of the family who has become a close contact person, avoid sharing towels at home, stagger meal times, etc., as much space as possible. live separately.

▽ Observe cough etiquette by wearing a mask, etc., and try to wash your hands and disinfect with alcohol.

▽ Disinfection of frequently touched items such as doorknobs and TV remote controls ▽ I want you to be careful such as regularly ventilating.

Since it is said that the Omicron strain has a lower rate of developing severe symptoms, it may be easier to think of it more lightly than before, but even so, the elderly and those with underlying diseases In the center, people who become serious are reported all over the world.

Be vigilant, especially if you have family members who are at high risk of becoming seriously ill, such as those with underlying medical conditions or who are elderly.

If a child or person in need of care is infected, what about the family?

If the infected person is old enough to live alone, close contact can be avoided by dividing the living space in the home and taking appropriate measures. If a person who needs nursing care is infected, it will be difficult to avoid becoming a close contact with the person taking care of them.

As of January 31, in such cases, the date the infected person's 10-day recuperation period ends is the "date of last contact."

For this reason, families who have become close contacts will need to wait at home for another 7 days.

There are no restrictions on going out because the infected person has finished the medical treatment period.

It seems strange that the waiting period is longer for close contacts than for infected people, but it is necessary considering the possibility that close contacts may be infected.

Family infection confirmed What should be done at home?

According to a survey by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the initial analysis results show that the infection rate of the Omicron strain in the home is about 30% to 45%, which is higher than that of the Delta strain. that there is a high possibility.

However, in this survey, even with the Omicron strain, the route of infection is the same as the new coronaviruses so far, and it is possible to be infected by flying infections and so-called "micro flying" (aerosol) in poorly ventilated places. Since it was the center, it is thought that it can be prevented by thorough conventional infection control measures.

In the illustration calling for attention created by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the following precautions are given if someone in the family is infected.

Will there be more close contacts in the future? What do you need to do?

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on countermeasures against the new coronavirus, said that it is possible that measures may be changed in the future according to the characteristics of the Omicron strain. increase.

Professor Tateda said that people under the age of 50 who do not have underlying diseases or obesity often recover with mild symptoms from the Omicron strain. (Interviewed on January 27)

"If you strongly restrain your actions in pursuit of zero risk, the number of infections may decrease, but on the contrary, social functions may become paralyzed and collapse. Accept a certain amount of risk. At the same time, we need a well-balanced response that maintains social functions.”

Furthermore, regarding the current situation where the number of infected people with the Omicron strain is increasing and the number of close contacts is increasing at an unprecedented pace.

"In a situation where the number of infected people is the highest in the country every day, we have to think about appropriate and more effective responses to close contacts as soon as possible. For example, young children. The risk of another family member being infected on the 10th day after being infected is not zero. If there is no evidence of infection and a negative test can be confirmed, it may be necessary to consider lifting the stay-at-home order at the same time as the child's medical treatment is lifted."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain pneumonia symptoms “lighter than delta strain” Experiment with hamsters (1/31)

January 31, 2022

About the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus, when a group such as the Institute of Medical Science of the University of Tokyo examined the lungs of infected hamsters in detail, experimental results showed that the symptoms of pneumonia were lighter than those of the Delta strain. Announced.

This research was published in the scientific journal "Nature" by Yoshihiro Kawaoka, a specially appointed professor at the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo.

The group investigated in detail the differences in symptoms between hamsters infected with the Omicron strain and hamsters infected with the Delta strain.

The results showed that hamsters infected with the Omicron strain had significantly lower amounts of virus detected in their lungs than hamsters infected with the Delta strain at day 3.

In addition, when we used CT to take images of the hamster's lungs, the delta strain showed pneumonia similar to that of human COVID-19 patients, but the Omicron strain showed only mild inflammation. I was.

On the other hand, in experiments with hamsters that were more susceptible to infection with the new corona, there were cases where even the Omicron strain died, so the group said, ``In the hamster experiment, the pathogenicity and proliferative ability of the Omicron strain were higher than those of the Delta strain. However, in humans, there are elderly people and people with weakened immune systems, so just because it is mild doesn't mean it's safe."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain "BA.2" English "There is no difference in the preventive effect of the vaccine" [1/29]

January 29, 2022

British health authorities prevent the onset of the disease when vaccinated against a strain of a virus called 'BA. The effectiveness of the virus revealed early analyzes that the two viruses were not significantly different.

Among the Omicron strains, the virus called "BA.2", which is a strain different from "BA.1", which is currently the mainstream of the epidemic, has spread in Denmark and other countries, and is being investigated in the United Kingdom. It is positioned as a mutated virus of

British health authorities announced on January 28th that 1072 cases of 'BA.2' had been confirmed in England, where London is located, as of January 24th.

At the moment, the proportion of ``BA.2'' is small, but early data suggests that it is slightly more infectious than ``BA.1''.

In addition, in the initial analysis, two weeks after the booster vaccination, the effect of preventing the onset was 63% for ``BA.1'' and 70% for ``BA.2'', a large difference. cannot be confirmed.

There is currently no data on aggravation, but health authorities will continue to analyze BA.2.

Sudden spread of Omicron strain infection Newly discovered Omicron strain derivative? What is BA.2 [1/27]

January 27, 2022

The rapid spread of Omicron strain infection cannot be stopped. Nationwide, the daily number of reported cases has almost tripled from the peak during the Delta strain. Although the risk of severe illness is low, the number of hospitalized patients is increasing, and there are reports from various places that the number of hospital beds is tight.

Among them, there was information that the virus "BA.2", which is a different lineage of the Omicron strain, is spreading in some parts of the world. What should I do now to prevent infection in this situation? I have summarized what I have learned. (As of January 27, 2022).

Experienced pace of spread of infection

The announcement of confirmed infections of the new corona nationwide will reach nearly 79,000 on January 27, 2022, peaking at the time of delta stocks, 2021 It is about three times as many as about 26,000 in late August.

It is rapidly expanding all over the country, and priority measures such as spread prevention have been expanded to 34 prefectures since January 27th.

From the results of the "mutant strain PCR test", in the one week provisional value until January 23, 2022, the number of viruses suspected of being Omicron strains accounted for 97% nationwide.

Omicron stock derived? What is BA.2

Furthermore, a mutant virus called "BA.2", which is one of the strains of the Omicron strain, has begun to attract attention.

Currently, in the Omicron strain "BA.1", which is spreading around the world, there is a part missing in the protrusion part "spike protein" on the surface of the virus, but in "BA.2" , I know there is no missing piece for this.

It has been pointed out that in Europe, this part is used as a mark to detect Omicron strains, so it may not be possible to find them. (It is said that the test conducted in Japan can detect it.)

In Japan, this virus has been detected in people who have traveled to India and the Philippines.

In addition, at an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on January 26, as a result of analyzing data from Denmark, where this virus is spreading, the effective reproduction number, which indicates how many people one person can infect, is " It was reported that it may have increased by 18% compared to BA.1.

According to a laboratory under the Danish health authority, "BA.2" was about 20% of the new coronaviruses detected in Denmark in the last week of 2021, but by 2022 It is said that it was about 45% in one week in mid-January.

However, in a statement issued on January 20, the Institute of Infectious Diseases under the Danish government stated that there was no difference in the risk of hospitalization between "BA.1" and "BA.2." We are investigating whether there is a difference in the degree of infectivity and the efficacy of the vaccine.

On January 21, the UK health authorities announced that they have positioned it as a ``mutant virus under investigation'' due to its increase both at home and abroad. In the UK, the traditional Omicron stock 'BA.1' is dominant, and 'BA.2' is a minority. However, we do not know what the difference in the virus's genes means, and we will continue to analyze it.

Short incubation period and short infection spread cycle

The Omicron strain is characterized by a short incubation period from infection to onset of symptoms.

According to a provisional report by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, analysis of 113 people infected with the Omicron strain showed that the average incubation period was just over 3 days.

Half developed symptoms within 3 days after exposure to the virus. Approximately 90% had symptoms by 6 days, and more than 98% had symptoms by 9 days.

In addition, the “generation time”, which is the period from when a person is infected to infecting others, is also shortening.

According to the materials of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, the generation time was about 5 days for the Delta strain, while it is believed to be about 2 days for the Omicron strain. It is thought that the infection spreads rapidly because it is infected one after another in a short period of time.

On the other hand, in South Africa and the United Kingdom, where the Omicron strain spread first, the number of infected people decreased rapidly, and it began to decrease in the United States.

In Japan, the surge is still continuing, but experts point out that it is important to reduce the impact as much as possible by keeping the peak as low as possible.

Infected by Eating and Drinking, etc. Avoid Wearing a Nose Mask

Now, with the possibility of being infected anywhere, what should be done?

The point is that even with the Omicron strain, the infection route is the same as the new coronavirus so far.

Flying droplets or “micro-flying droplets”, which are small droplets that float in a closed room, are the main forms of infection, and there is also contact infection by touching the nose or mouth with the virus-covered hands.

According to the results of an epidemiological survey of cases infected with the Omicron strain released by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases on January 13, even with the Omicron strain, year-end parties with colleagues at restaurants and relatives at home Infection through eating and drinking, such as dinner, has been seen, and there are many infections by flying.

There have also been reports of cases of infection through working in a close environment at work.

It is important to thoroughly implement measures such as "wearing a mask" and "ventilating" that have been continued.

Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, told reporters after the subcommittee on January 25, ``I thought it was possible to get infected in situations where the mask was removed or when the mask was not worn enough, such as a 'nasal mask. We know that there are far more people than we thought. What I want you to do is wear masks properly, and I want you to cover your nose with a non-woven mask.”

There is a high risk of infection when talking or eating without a mask, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting recommends that everyone, including those who have been vaccinated, continue to wear masks correctly, maintain hand hygiene, and ensure proper ventilation. It is necessary and says, ``It is better to avoid even one crowd as much as possible.''

Additional vaccination increases the risk of hospitalization ↓

It is believed that additional vaccination with the Omicron strain is effective, but on January 21, the U.S. CDC (Disease Control) The center also published an analysis result that the effect of preventing hospitalization increased to 90% even for the Omicron strain.

If more than 6 months have passed since the second vaccination of Pfizer or Moderna's "mRNA vaccine", the effect of preventing hospitalization was 81% when the Delta strain was dominant, while the Omicron strain was dominant. 57% at the time.

However, after the third inoculation, the Delta time increased to 94% and the Omicron time increased to 90%.

In addition, compared to those who received a booster vaccination, the rate of hospitalization was significantly higher for those who did not receive it, 44 times for those aged 50 to 64, and 49 times for those aged 65 and over. Announced at the same time.

The CDC says a third dose is important to prevent symptoms from worsening, and those who haven't been vaccinated should get the vaccine as soon as possible.

Risk of aggravation ↓ Also bed occupancy rate ↑

While the Omicron strain is highly contagious, there is a growing view that the rate of becoming severe when infected is low.

WHO = The World Health Organization said in its weekly report on January 25, ``The Omicron strain appears to have a low risk of severe illness and death, despite a sharp rise in the number of infected people in each country.'' .

In addition, although the Omicron strain is likely to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, it is said that the risk of reaching the lungs and becoming severe is lower than other mutant viruses.

However, because the number of infected people is so high, many countries are calling for caution, saying that the number of hospitalizations is increasing rapidly and the medical system is overwhelmed.

British health officials say the risk of hospitalization for Omicron strain is one-third that of Delta strain.

However, in the UK, as of January 25, 2022, 64.4% of people (over 12 years old) had received the third booster dose, and as of January 27, 2.5% of the total population. Caution is required because the situation is different from Japan, which remains in Japan.

There have been reports from various parts of Japan that there are many people with mild symptoms, but in Okinawa Prefecture, where the infection spread the earliest in the country, the infection is spreading to elderly people who are at risk of becoming seriously ill.

The percentage of people in their 60s and older among the infected in Okinawa Prefecture has gradually increased to about 16% in the week until January 23rd.

The occupancy rate of hospital beds is increasing day by day, and as of January 26, it is 63.8% in Okinawa Prefecture, 53.9% in Osaka Prefecture, and 42.8% in Tokyo.

In Japan, the number of deaths continues to be low, but overseas, even though the number of infected people has decreased, the number of deaths has increased in some places.

In the United Kingdom, the number of new infections in the week ending January 18 was about 674,000, which is about 40% lower than the previous week, and is almost flat. The number of deaths increased by about 15% to more than 1,900 in the week leading up to January 18, when the number of infected people seemed to have peaked, and the number of deaths continued to rise to more than 1,800 in the week that followed.

Even in Japan, if the infection continues to spread, the number of seriously ill patients and deaths may increase.

Expansion of children's infection Concern in each country

With the Omicron strain, the spread of infection among children, which was rare until now, continues.

According to the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of new infections under the age of 10 was 149 in the week until December 28, 2021, but by January 4, 2022, 353 and 1. By January 11th, there were 2,238 people, and by January 18th, it was 12,947.

In the United States, the number of new infections among children reached 1,151,000 in the week ending January 20, continuing to set a record high.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports a 0.1-1.5% rate of severe illness leading to hospitalization in children and a 0-0.02% mortality rate.

In Japan, the target age for vaccination has been lowered to 5 years old. In clinical trials conducted by Pfizer, it was found to be 90.7% effective in preventing the onset of symptoms between the ages of 5 and 11, and symptoms after vaccination were generally mild to moderate.

Professor Tetsuo Nakayama of Kitasato University, who is a pediatrician and is familiar with vaccines, said, ``It is important to prepare with vaccination because it is not possible to identify in advance which children will become seriously ill. It is said to increase in the nose and throat, and children may have difficulty producing sputum, or their airways may be small, causing them to cough violently or have difficulty breathing. Parents and children should understand vaccines in advance, carefully consider the advantages, disadvantages, and side effects, and proceed with the consent of both the child and the parent.”

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc., such as infectivity and pathogenicity I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

"Alpha stocks" (First reported in the UK in December 2020) "Beta stocks" (First reported in South Africa in December 2020) "Gamma stocks" (Reported in January 2021 Expanded in Brazil) "Delta stocks" (Same lineage first reported in India in October 2020) "Omicron strain" (First reported in South Africa in November 2021)

▼Infectivity

"Alpha strain" ↑"Beta strain" ↑"Gamma strain" ↑"Delta strain" ↑ ↑"Omicron strain" ↑ ↑ ↑

Data showing the speed of infection of the Omicron strain has been reported from various countries.

In the WHO weekly report, we introduced the results of an analysis in Denmark in December 2021 that the "secondary infection rate" in the household was 21% for the Delta strain and 31% for the Omicron strain. increase.

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States has data that the infectivity of the Omicron strain is up to three times that of the Delta strain.

▼Virulence

"Alpha strain" Possibility of high risk of hospitalization, aggravation, and death "Beta strain" Possibility of high hospitalization risk and mortality rate "Gamma strain" Hospitalization/hospitalization Possibility of high risk of aggravation “Delta strain” Possibility of high risk of hospitalization “Omicron strain” Low risk of hospitalization and aggravation

The Omicron strain is said to have a lower risk of hospitalization and aggravation than the Delta strain.

On the other hand, British health authorities say that the Omicron strain has a low risk of severe disease, but it does not necessarily mean that the burden on medical institutions will be reduced because of the speed of the spread of infection and the nature of escaping immunity. , is emphasized.

▼Risk of reinfection

"Alpha strain" Antibody activity to suppress the virus is maintained, risk of reinfection is the same as conventional strains "Beta strain" Antibody activity to suppress the virus is reduced , The function of the cells that attack the virus is maintained "Gamma strain" The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced "Delta strain" The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is decreased "Omicron strain" The risk of reinfection increases

The WHO says that there are mutations that make it easier to reinfect even those who are immune from vaccines or past infections.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▼Effects of vaccines (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

"Alpha strain" No change in infection prevention, onset prevention, and prevention of aggravation "Beta strain" Change in prevention of onset and aggravation “Gamma strain” No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation “Delta strain” No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation There are also reports that the preventive effect is reduced and that it is effective in preventing aggravation.There is also a report that the third vaccination is effective in preventing onset and severity.

The Omicron strain has been reported to infect people who have completed two doses of the vaccine.

There is data showing that although the effect of preventing the onset of the disease decreases with time after vaccination, the effect of preventing aggravation is maintained to a certain extent.

In addition, there are reports that the third booster vaccination is effective in preventing the onset and severity of the disease.

According to data from the UK health authorities, the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines against the Omicron strain were 65-70% effective in preventing the disease two to four weeks after two doses. , It dropped to about 10% after 20 weeks.

When people who received two doses of Pfizer vaccine received a third booster dose of either Pfizer or Moderna, the protection increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

However, it dropped to 55-70% after 5 to 9 weeks, and to 40-50% after 10 weeks.

The effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

▼Effects of therapeutic agents

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not recommend administration to patients infected with the Omicron strain.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

Research groups such as the University of Tokyo have investigated the effects of substances released into the body when the oral drug "Lagebrio (generic name: molnupiravir)" for mild patients is administered, and "Remdesivir", which is administered to patients with moderate or higher symptoms. As a result of investigation, we introduce the experimental result that the same effect as the delta strain was obtained for the Omicron strain.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Experts

Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with the situation of infections overseas, said about the measures required at present, "Even if the Omicron strain is 'BA.1', "BA.2" does not change the fact that it is highly contagious, and the measures that should be taken by the general public will not change.The most important thing is to continue to thoroughly implement the measures that are being taken in the current situation where Omicron stocks are rapidly expanding. On the other hand, it is important to monitor the method of infection and whether there is any change in symptoms in order to take optimal measures, so we need to continue to monitor it."

Countermeasures remain the same

The countermeasures we can take are the same as before, but experts are calling for more thorough countermeasures in the current situation of the rapid spread of infection. increase.

Cover your nose with a non-woven mask, avoid "nasal masks", avoid crowding, and be more careful when removing your mask.

It is especially important to take measures when eating and drinking.

In addition to vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Strain Even with mild symptoms, there are cases of emergency transport due to "exacerbation of chronic disease" (1/23)

January 23, 2022

The rapidly expanding Omicron stock. At university hospitals in the Tokyo metropolitan area, most of the patients remain mildly ill, but there are cases in which the infection seems to have an indirect effect, such as those who have mild symptoms but are transported by ambulance due to worsening chronic illnesses due to infection. are also one after another.

The Saitama Medical University General Medical Center, located in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, has been treating mainly severe patients with the new corona.

In the sixth wave of Omicron stocks, which is rapidly expanding, there has been no response to severely ill patients so far, and as of January 22nd, the ward for corona patients, which has a total of more than 40 beds, has an elderly population. 7 people with underlying diseases are hospitalized, but all have mild symptoms.

However, the treating doctor points out that there is a problem apart from the symptoms of Corona.

A woman in her 50s living in Saitama Prefecture who was hospitalized had been recuperating at home for several days when the infection was confirmed, but while she was recuperating, her chronic abdominal disease worsened and she was transported by ambulance. I was.

Doctors say that although the symptoms of Corona are mild like this woman, there are a number of cases where the infection has an indirect effect and the chronic illness seems to have worsened.

Since the woman did not have pneumonia and her chronic illness was improving, the doctor responded to the interview on behalf of her.

The woman said, ``After the fever rose to 39 degrees, the temperature dropped the next day, and I thought it would heal as it was, but surprisingly it didn't, and it seems that the infection had damaged her body. I was talking.

Professor Hideaki Oka of the Department of Infectious Diseases said, ``Even if corona is mild and does not cause pneumonia, chronic illnesses may worsen if there is high fever or damage from the virus. If the number of people infected with the Omicron strain increases overwhelmingly, there will be a risk that the chronic disease will worsen or other diseases will develop." increase.

Omicron stock "Don't let your guard down"

A woman infected with the new coronavirus and hospitalized at the Saitama Medical University General Medical Center responded to an interview, saying, "The Omicron stock is just a cold." ``Some people may think that, but the damage to the body, such as exacerbating chronic illnesses, is also great, so please don't let your guard down.''

A woman in her 50s living in Saitama Prefecture was infected with the new coronavirus and is still hospitalized, but since her symptoms have subsided, a doctor will listen to her on behalf of her in the ward. gave me

In early January, the woman had a fever and sore throat, and when she was examined at a nearby medical institution, she was confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus.

Regarding the situation when she was infected, the woman said, ``I was having a conversation with an acquaintance at a restaurant, so I think I got infected there. , I think I became looser when I drank alcohol, and I became looser with wearing a mask and talking.”

At first, the woman was recuperating at home, but after a few days, her chronic abdominal disease worsened and she was rushed to the emergency room.

The woman said, ``At first, the fever rose to about 39 degrees, and the next day I was confirmed positive at a medical institution, but at that time, the fever was going down, so I thought it would be easier to recover. However, unexpectedly, it seems that the body was damaged by the infection."

Then, when I checked at the hospital, I found out that I was suspected of being infected with the Omicron strain.

On the other hand, the impact on the family was also great, my husband could not go to work and had to wait at home, and my son took the university entrance exam, but received a negative result and took the exam in a separate room.

The woman said, ``I hadn't been infected until now, and I had been vaccinated twice, so I think I was relaxed. So, I see some people saying, “Omicron stock is just a cold,” but I think it’s better not to let your guard down. , I really think it's better to be patient."

Infected and unable to receive proper treatment

The Omicron strain spreads rapidly.

Although many of the symptoms of Corona are mild, there is also the unexpected effect of not being able to receive the treatment that you would normally receive due to its high contagiousness.

The Saitama Medical University General Medical Center said last week, ``When I tried to perform a surgical operation, it was found that I was infected with the corona, so I could not perform the operation. It is said that consultations such as "Is it possible?" were received one after another from Saitama Prefecture and Tokyo.

According to Professor Hideaki Oka of the Department of Infectious Diseases, the specific cases were as follows.

The patient was found to be infected when he was tested for the new corona to undergo emergency surgery for an intestinal disease at another hospital.

There were almost no symptoms of Corona, but Professor Oka's hospital was requested to respond, saying that this hospital could not prepare for surgery after taking measures against Corona infection.

Professor Oka said, ``Corona itself is already a common disease. It is quite possible that a mild case of coronavirus is an influenza symptom, so I think we should be able to see patients at any hospital, and if we don't act quickly, the patient's life could be in danger. We need to be able to see patients at any hospital,” he said.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “unprecedented spread of infection” What can be done now (1/19)

January 19, 2022

The highest number of infected people has been reported since the "Omicron strain" began to spread the new corona all over the country, and the rapid spread of infection seen in Europe and the United States is now occurring in Japan. Most of the new coronaviruses detected in Japan are now Omicron strains. While it is highly contagious, it has been found that the risk of becoming severe is lower than that of the delta strain, etc., but even so, the number of people hospitalized with the rapid spread of infection has increased rapidly, and the occupancy rate of hospital beds is increasing day by day. It's going up. Where is the infection spreading? With this spread, what can we do to prevent infection? I have summarized what I have learned. (As of January 19, 2022)

Unprecedented pace of spread of infection

On January 19th, the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus nationwide exceeded 40,000 in a single day for the first time, and on January 1st, 2022. Compared to 456 people (excluding confirmation in quarantine), it is actually about 90 times.

The Omicron strain has caused a rapid spread not only in urban areas, but also in areas where previous waves of infection did not spread significantly.

On January 13, 2022, an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, which advises on measures against the new coronavirus, announced that, due to the replacement of Omicron stocks, not only in urban areas but also in various places, "new "The number of infected people is increasing," he said.

In addition to Okinawa Prefecture, Hiroshima Prefecture, and Yamaguchi Prefecture, 12 prefectures including the Tokyo metropolitan area, Aichi Prefecture and other Tokai regions, and Kumamoto Prefecture and other Kyushu regions will also take measures to prevent the spread of the virus from January 21st. decided to apply.

The replacement of the Delta strain with the Omicron strain is rapid, and according to the results of the "mutant strain PCR test", 84% of the viruses suspected of being the Omicron strain nationwide in the week until January 9, 2022. has come to occupy.

In Japan, the first case was detected at a quarantine station from a person who entered the country on November 28, 2021, and the first community-acquired infection was reported on December 22, 2021.

It has been more than a month since the detection at the quarantine station, and about half a month since the community infection was reported, and it has accounted for most of the cases.

In the United Kingdom and the United States, at the end of the year and the beginning of the year, it was reported that the Omicron strain was almost replaced in about a month after the first infection was confirmed.

The same thing is happening in Japan now, about half a month late.

Short incubation period and short cycle of infection

It is believed that one of the reasons behind the rapid spread of Omicron strain infection is the short incubation period from infection to onset of symptoms. .

According to a provisional report by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, analysis of 113 people infected with the Omicron strain showed that the average incubation period was just over 3 days.

A little less than 9% developed symptoms by the day after exposure to the virus, more than 30% by 2 days, more than 53% by 3 days, half of them by 3 days.

And by the 6th day, about 90% had symptoms, and by the 9th day, more than 98% had symptoms.

Because the span from infection to onset is shorter than that of previous new coronaviruses, it is believed that the infection spreads quickly and easily.

Infection through eating and drinking

The route of infection for the Omicron strain is the same as for previous new coronaviruses.

Flying droplets or “micro-flying droplets”, which are small droplets that float in a closed room, are the main forms of infection, and there is also contact infection by touching the nose or mouth with the virus-covered hands.

According to the results of an epidemiological survey of cases infected with the Omicron strain released by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases on January 13, even with the Omicron strain, year-end parties with colleagues at restaurants and dinners with relatives at home. Infection through eating and drinking is seen, and there are many flying infections.

There have also been reports of cases of infection through working in a close environment at work.

Omi, Chairman of the Government Subcommittee, said on January 19 that the keyword for the countermeasure was ``restriction of the number of people'', and said, ``What we learned from the investigation of the infection route of the Omicron strain was that many people gathered, This means that many infections are occurring in environments where people are eating, drinking, shouting, and having poor ventilation. It is important to avoid situations where there is a high risk of infection, such as parties where

There is a high risk of infection when talking or eating without a mask, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expert meeting needs to continue to ensure proper wearing of masks, hand hygiene, ventilation, etc., including those who have been vaccinated. says, "It is better to avoid even one crowd as much as possible."

Risk of aggravation ↓ Also bed occupancy rate ↑

While the Omicron strain is highly contagious, there is a growing view that the rate of becoming severe when infected is low.

The WHO summarized in its January 11 weekly report that the risk of hospitalization and severe illness from the Omicron strain "appears to be decreasing."

About the symptoms of the Omicron strain, WHO and others have shown that although it is likely to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, the risk of reaching the lungs and becoming severe is lower than that of other mutant viruses.

British health officials say the risk of hospitalization for Omicron strain is one-third that of Delta strain.

However, in the UK, 63.6% of people who received the third booster vaccination as of January 17, 2022, remained at 1.3% as of January 19. are different, so be careful.

Regarding the risk of aggravation due to the Omicron strain, early data from Okinawa Prefecture has been shown in Japan.

As of January 4, 92.3% were asymptomatic or mild, 4.0% were moderate 1 with pneumonia, 3.7% were moderate 2 requiring oxygen administration, and 0 were severe requiring ventilators. %was.

However, experts say that young people are overwhelmingly the majority of people infected with the Omicron strain in Okinawa at the moment, and that if the infection spreads to the elderly in the future, the number of severe cases may increase.

In Okinawa Prefecture, the percentage of elderly people over the age of 60 is about 15% as of January 18, and has been gradually rising over the past few days.

The occupancy rate of hospital beds is increasing day by day, and as of January 19, it is 60.5% in Okinawa Prefecture, 31.3% in Osaka Prefecture, and 25.9% in Tokyo.

The number of infected people is extremely high despite the fact that the risk of hospitalization has decreased, so the number of hospitalizations, severe cases, and deaths has increased significantly, placing a heavy burden on the medical system. I'm doing it.

In Japan, the number of deaths continues to be low, but the number of deaths is increasing overseas, where the infection with the Omicron strain spread earlier than in Japan.

In the UK, the number of new infections in the week ending January 18 was about 674,000, which seems to have peaked out by about 40% compared to the previous week, but the same. The number of deaths in the last week has increased by about 15% to more than 1,900, and the increasing trend continues.

If the infection continues to spread in Japan, the number of seriously ill patients and deaths may increase.

Spread of infection among children Concern in each country

The Omicron strain is also attracting attention for the spread of infection among children.

In Japan, according to the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of new infections under the age of 10 in the week ending January 11 was 2238.

There were 353 people in the week leading up to January 4th, and 149 in the week leading up to December 28, 2021, sharply increasing at the start of the year.

In the United States, the number of new infections among children in the week ending January 13 was 981,000, 1.69 times the previous week and the highest ever.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reports a 0.1 to 1.5% rate of severe illness leading to hospitalization in children and a 0 to 0.02% mortality rate.

In addition, the hospitalization rate for children under the age of 4, who have not reached the target age for vaccination, is increasing, and according to the CDC = Center for Disease Control, the hospitalization rate until January 1st in this age group is the population. 4.3 per 100,000, up from 2.6 the week before.

The number of children hospitalized in the UK is also increasing.

According to data from health authorities, the number of hospitalized patients aged 0 to 17 was about 40 in late December 2021, but two weeks later in early January, it tripled to about 120. increased to

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc., such as infectivity and pathogenicity I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

▼Infectivity

Data showing the infectivity of the Omicron strain has been reported from various countries.

The WHO weekly report introduces the results of an analysis in Denmark in December 2021 that the "secondary infection rate" in the home was 21% for the Delta strain and 31% for the Omicron strain.

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States has data that the infectivity of the Omicron strain is up to three times that of the Delta strain.

▼Virulence

"Alpha strain" → Possibility of high risk of hospitalization, aggravation, and death "Beta strain" → Possibility of high hospitalization risk and mortality rate "Gamma strain" → Possibility of high risk of hospitalization and aggravation "Delta strain" → Possibility of high risk of hospitalization "Omicron strain" → Low risk of hospitalization and aggravation

There have been a series of reports that the Omicron strain has a lower risk of hospitalization and aggravation than the Delta strain.

On the other hand, British health authorities say that the Omicron strain has a low risk of severe disease, but it does not necessarily mean that the burden on medical institutions will be reduced due to the speed of the spread of infection and the nature of escaping immunity. emphasized.

▼Risk of re-infection

"Alpha strain" → Antibody function to suppress virus is maintained, risk of reinfection is the same as conventional strain "Beta strain" → Antibody function to suppress virus "Gamma strain" → The activity of the virus-suppressing antibody is slightly reduced "Delta strain" → The activity of the virus-suppressing antibody is reduced "Omicron strain" → The risk of reinfection increases

The WHO says that there are mutations that make it easier to reinfect even those who are immune from vaccines or past infections.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▼Effects of vaccines (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

"Alpha strain" → No change in infection prevention, onset prevention, and severity prevention "Beta strain" → Onset prevention, severity prevention "Gamma strain" → No change in infection prevention, onset prevention, and prevention of aggravation "Delta strain" → No change in infection prevention, onset prevention, and aggravation prevention (There are also reports that infection prevention and onset prevention are reduced) Omicron strain → Some reports say that it is effective in preventing the onset of disease and prevents the disease from becoming severe.

Omicron strains have been reported to infect people who have completed two doses of the vaccine.

There is data showing that although the effect of preventing the onset of the disease decreases with time after vaccination, the effect of preventing aggravation is maintained to a certain extent.

In addition, there are reports that the third booster vaccination is effective in preventing the onset and severity of the disease.

According to data presented by the UK health authorities, the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines were 65-70% effective in preventing the onset of disease 2 to 4 weeks after two doses against the Omicron strain. However, it dropped to about 10% after 20 weeks.

When people who received two doses of Pfizer vaccine received a third booster dose of either Pfizer or Moderna, the protection increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

However, it dropped to 55-70% after 5 to 9 weeks, and to 40-50% after 10 weeks.

On the other hand, the effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72% protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52% after 25 weeks. , It was 88% after 2 weeks after the 3rd booster vaccination.

▼Effects of therapeutic agents

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not recommend administration to patients infected with the Omicron strain.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

Research groups such as the University of Tokyo have investigated the effects of substances released into the body when the oral drug "Lagebrio (generic name: molnupiravir)" for mild patients is administered, and "Remdesivir", which is administered to patients with moderate or higher symptoms. According to the results of our investigation, we have introduced experimental results showing that the same level of effect was obtained for the Omicron strain as for the Delta strain.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in critically ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Experts

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said, "The spread of infection is still in progress, and we must assume that it will increase further in the future. If the number of infected people increases, there is a concern that many people will be infected at the same time, which will temporarily have a major impact on medical care, logistics, and transportation. It's important to have people avoid it, reduce the number of high-risk situations as much as possible, and prevent the peak of infection from becoming as high as possible."

In addition, Tetsuo Nakayama, a specially appointed professor at Kitasato University who is a pediatrician and is familiar with vaccines, says that as the infection spreads, there are benefits to vaccination even for children who are less likely to become seriously ill.

"Even in children, it is not possible to specify in advance which child will be infected and become severe, so it is important to be vaccinated and prepared. Omicron strains are said to increase in the upper respiratory tract, nose and throat. It is also possible that children have a hard time expelling sputum or have a small airway, causing them to cough violently or have difficulty breathing.Scenes where an unspecified number of people gather closely, such as cram schools, after-school childcare, and lessons. There are actually cases of infection in Japan, and it is a big burden for children to be infected and isolated, so there is merit in vaccination."

The countermeasures will not change

The countermeasures we can take will not change.

However, since it is highly contagious, it seems better to be more careful when removing the mask to avoid crowding.

It is especially important to take measures when eating and drinking.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

Nagoya, a man who died while recovering from corona at home, was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain (1/18)

January 18, 2022

Nagoya City was confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus on January 11, and as a result of genome analysis, it was confirmed that a man in his 70s who died while recuperating at home was infected with the Omicron strain. announced as confirmed. According to the city, the exact cause of death is unknown.

In Nagoya City, a new coronavirus infection was confirmed on January 11, and a man in his 70s who was being treated at home was found dead the next morning.

The man had symptoms such as fever and general malaise, but the symptoms were mild. I was.

The male care manager called him that night and the next morning, but was unsuccessful, and found the paramedics dead at home.

Regarding this man, on January 18, Nagoya City announced that it was found to be infected with the Omicron strain as a result of genome analysis.

According to the city, the man had underlying diseases such as interstitial pneumonia and emphysema, but the detailed cause of death is unknown.

Back to Table of Contents

What was found in the genome analysis of the new corona Omicron strain patient... (1/17)

January 17, 2022

"Omicron strain" that spreads rapidly.

When a doctor at Tokyo Medical and Dental University, who specializes in virology, analyzed the genomes of inpatients with the Omicron strain, they found that there were multiple types of the same Omicron strain with different mutations, and the Delta strain. Mutations at the same sites as the mutations that make pneumonia more likely to occur were also confirmed in this patient.

The doctor points out that ``it is too early to conclude that the Omicron strain will not cause severe disease and still needs to be viewed with caution.''

Associate Professor Hiroaki Takeuchi of Tokyo Medical and Dental University, who specializes in virology and is promoting genetic analysis of the new coronavirus, has analyzed the genomes of four hospitalized patients with the Omicron strain.

As a result, none of the strains spread in South Africa, Europe, or Asia, but in North America.

However, even in the same North American strain, the mutation sites were divided into two types, and Associate Professor Takeuchi said that the Omicron strain is constantly mutating, and analyzed which strain will become mainstream in Japan. I think we need to continue.

Associate Professor Takeuchi said, ``If we know where the epidemic will flow in and become mainstream, we will be able to adjust the quarantine system at the airport. It will be information that will lead to the selection of therapeutic drugs and treatment methods.”

The symptoms of the Omicron strain...

How much do you know about the symptoms of the Omicron strain?

According to Associate Professor Takeuchi, the Delta strain has a mutation at the same location as the "P681R" mutation, which is said to cause inflammation in the lungs. It means that it was done.

This mutation site has been found to be prone to pneumonia in animal studies.

Associate Professor Takeuchi said, "Even in the Omicron strain, there are mutations in the sites that are related to the degree of inflammation in the lungs. , It is quite possible that symptoms will appear in the same way.It is too early to conclude that the Omicron strain will not necessarily become severe, and it is still necessary to look carefully."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “Pneumonia symptoms in unvaccinated patients” (1/14)

January 14, 2022

At university hospitals in Tokyo that deal with patients with the Omicron strain, while most of them had mild symptoms, there were cases in which patients who had not been vaccinated had symptoms of pneumonia. It may be mild, but there are many unknowns about the Omicron strain, and it is still in a phase that should be treated with caution."

The Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, located in Hachioji, Tokyo, has so far accepted more than 10 patients with the Omicron strain, including those who have been confirmed to be infected in airport quarantines since late December 2021. .

According to Professor Yuji Hirai of the Department of Infectious Diseases, while many patients have mild symptoms such as coughing and sore throat, some cases have worsened to moderate symptoms.

Among them, a male patient in his 20s who was hospitalized in 2022 had symptoms of pneumonia when a doctor confirmed a CT image of his lungs because he had not been vaccinated. is.

Currently, he is recovering.

Professor Hirai said, "It may be thought that the Omicron strain is mild, but there may be at least a difference between those who are vaccinated and those who are not. I don't know what will happen if someone who has the virus or if the elderly are infected.If the denominator of infected people increases, there is a high possibility that the virus will enter the elderly and other layers.After all, there are still many things we do not know. is a phase that should be handled with caution."

Many medical departments are in charge on a turn system

At the Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, doctors in the infectious disease department and general medicine department, which play a central role in the treatment of corona patients, As a "corona concierge", while providing guidance, we are promoting the creation of a system in which doctors from more than 60% of the 36 departments in the hospital rotate daily and take charge of patients who are hospitalized that day.

In addition, from January 18, in preparation for the spread of infection, the number of beds dedicated to corona, which was temporarily reduced to about 50 beds, will be expanded to more than 80 beds.

Professor Yuji Hirai of the Department of Infectious Diseases said, ``Currently, all clinical departments are on a turn system, and we have set up the role of a new corona concierge like us. The concierge examines patients from two perspectives.We have a system in place to provide backup by providing medical care together."

Back to Table of Contents

[Details] “Maintain social functions” Shortening the waiting period for close contacts (1/14)

January 14, 2022

Infection with the Omicron strain has spread rapidly, and systems such as medical care and nursing care are under pressure. In Okinawa, as of January 12, more than 600 medical workers have been absent from work, limiting emergency services and medical care.

Amid concerns about further spread of infection, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has announced a policy to shorten the waiting period, which is currently 14 days, to 10 days in principle for close contacts of Omicron strain infected people. It also summarizes what is happening in the medical field and the response in Europe and the United States.

■ Waiting period for close contacts: 14 days → 10 days We have established a policy to shorten the waiting period at home.

At present, close contacts of people infected with the Omicron strain are being asked to wait for 14 days at accommodation facilities or at home. There was an opinion asking to shorten the waiting period because it is shorter than the conventional virus.

In response to this, Prime Minister Kishida discussed with Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto on January 14 about the waiting period for close contacts. After that, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto revealed to reporters that the waiting period will be shortened from the current 14 days to 10 days.

In addition to medical workers, police, firefighters, public transportation, and "essential workers" who support society and life, such as nursing care and childcare, are judged by the local government to be on the 6th day from the date of the last contact with the infected person. It is a policy to cancel the waiting period if the PCR test, antigen quantitative test, or antigen qualitative test performed on the 6th and 7th days are consecutively negative.

In addition, local governments that have been replaced by the Omicron strain have omitted the genome analysis that is currently being performed for those other than those infected with the Delta strain, and consider all infected people to be infected with the Omicron strain. It means that you should be able to handle it.

Minister Goto said, "While continuing to collect scientific knowledge on the infectivity of the Omicron strain and the risk of aggravation, we will fully operate the local medical system and take the initiative to respond to the spread of infection in Japan. I want to go,' he said.

■ Continuing impact on essential workers...

Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Goto said that the policy of shortening the waiting period was to maintain social functions, but the infection has spread. In some areas, it is already difficult to maintain the functions of “essential workers”.

One after another of medical workers unable to work

As of January 12, there are 628 medical workers who are unable to work due to being infected or becoming close contacts in Okinawa Prefecture. People are climbing up.

Of these, 180 were confirmed to be infected, and a total of 448 medical workers were unable to work due to becoming close contacts.

Even if you become a close contact person, if a medical worker is asymptomatic, they will be tested daily and will be able to work if a negative result is confirmed, but depending on the prefecture, there are many people who cannot work due to symptoms. about it.

According to the prefecture, as of January 12, there are 8 medical institutions that are restricting the acceptance of emergency services, and 14 medical institutions that are restricting general medical examinations.

"I think the medical system is close to collapsing..."

From around January 4, due to the rapid spread of infection at the "Yuai Medical Center", a key medical institution for the new corona in Tomigusuku City, There are many cases where doctors, nurses, and clerical staff cannot come to work.

According to the hospital, in addition to being infected with the new corona and becoming a close contact, elementary and junior high schools in the city were temporarily closed and dozens of staff were working as of January 13 to take care of the children. It means that you are unable to work.

While there is a shortage of staff, as of January 13, 15 of the 20 beds for corona patients in the hospital are occupied. We are making adjustments to relocate.

Dr. Morikuni Nishihira of Yuai Medical Center said, "Winter is a time when normal medical care other than Corona is also tight, and we should have expanded the range of medical care provided, but there is a shortage of staff and we are downsizing. It's an unavoidable situation. I think the medical system is close to collapse."

Firefighting 3 shifts → 2 shifts

At the fire department in Naha City, an infected person was found among the staff, and even those who had close contact could not come to work. I am forced to change to a "system".

At the "Central Fire Station Kokuba Branch" in Yogi, Naha City, the staff was divided into three groups of seven people each, working 24 hours a day and taking two days off.

However, in January, one staff member was confirmed to be infected in one of these groups, and the remaining members became close contacts and are unable to go to work.

For this reason, in order to maintain the work with the remaining two teams at this branch office, we changed the duty system to a "two-shift system" in which we work 24 hours a day and take one day off.

Mr. Hikaru Yaga, Manager of the General Affairs Division of the Naha City Fire Department, said, "It will put a burden on the staff, but the decline in firefighting power should never happen, so I want you to do your best."

120 people unable to go to work

The impact on "essential workers" is spreading to other areas, and in Hiroshima Prefecture, infections have occurred one after another at medical institutions and transportation facilities. At least 120 people will be unable to come to work by then.

Infections have also occurred one after another in the field of education and childcare, and at least 68 elementary schools, junior high schools, and nursery schools in the prefecture have closed or closed classes, and the impact of parents taking time off from work is spreading.

■ Unprecedented pace of increase

Comparing the number of new coronavirus infections on a weekly basis, the number of infected people nationwide has continued to increase rapidly since the beginning of January. Infections are spreading at an unprecedented pace across the country, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Okinawa.

▽In the week leading up to December 16th, the number increased gradually to 1.12 times compared to the previous week, 1.45 times on December 23rd, and 1.60 times on December 30th. As the infection with the Omicron strain spreads, the pace of increase continues to rise to 4.86 times on January 6 and 6.69 times by January 13.

▽ 1.65 times the previous week for the week until December 30th ▽ 4.48 times for January 6th ▽ 6.90 times for January 13th

▽ 1.96 times the previous week for the week until December 30th ▽ 4.57 times for January 6th ▽ 6.67 times for January 13th

▽ 3.59 times the previous week for the week until December 30th ▽ 10.86 times for January 6th ▽ 4.62 times for January 13th

Rapid expansion continues.

■European Countries Shortening Quarantine Periods

European countries are also taking measures to shorten the quarantine period.

[UK] In the UK, where the Omicron strain has spread and the number of infected people exceeds 100,000 every day, the number of people who cannot go out due to isolation is increasing rapidly, and there is a shortage of people working in medical institutions, schools, and transportation. It's a situation.

In December 2021, the British government shortened the quarantine period for infected people in England, which is located in London, from 10 days to a minimum of 7 days. announced that it will be even shorter and will be 5 days. According to the announcement, isolation can be completed in 5 days if negative tests are confirmed twice in a row and there is no fever. We ask that you avoid contact in crowded places.

[France] France has shortened the isolation period to 7 days if they are vaccinated, and medical workers can be exempted from isolation if they have no symptoms. Contacts who have been vaccinated are exempt from isolation provided they are tested.

[Germany] Germany has shortened the isolation period for infected people to seven days if they test negative, and exempts contacts from isolation if they have received a booster vaccination.

[Italy] Italy also shortens the isolation period for infected people to 7 days under certain conditions, such as receiving additional vaccinations, and exempts contacts from isolation.

ECDC = The European Center for Disease Control and Prevention has shown guidelines that the isolation period for "essential workers" who support society and life can be shortened to 3 days if certain conditions such as booster vaccinations are met. .

California Continues business if positive but no symptoms

Even in the United States, the isolation period has been shortened to 5 days under certain conditions, and the spread of infection has had an impact on society. Corresponding movements are spreading.

California health officials have announced that until February 1, due to the lack of medical workers due to the spread of the new coronavirus, even if the medical workers themselves are confirmed to be positive, they will be asymptomatic. The policy is to allow employees to continue their work without quarantine.

When working, it is desirable to be obliged to wear a high-performance mask and deal with patients who are positive for the new corona, but in emergency wards where tests cannot be performed immediately or in workplaces where there is a serious labor shortage, this is the case. I don't think it's too long.

However, there are voices of opposition to this policy, saying that it is a dangerous response because it may spread the infection to other patients locally.

Back to Table of Contents

Waiting period for close contacts at home, etc. 14 days → Shortened to 10 days Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare (1/14)

January 14, 2022

In response to the spread of the Omicron strain, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto has shortened the waiting period at accommodation facilities and homes required for close contacts to maintain social functions from the current 14 days to 10 days. clarified the policy to

In addition, so-called "essential workers" such as medical workers, police, and firefighters should wait if the PCR test, etc. conducted on the 6th day after the last contact with an infected person at the discretion of the local government is negative. The policy is to remove it.

The government is currently asking close contacts of Omicron strain infected people to wait for 14 days at accommodation or at home, but at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting held on January 13, hiding Opinions were raised to shorten the waiting period because the period is shorter than the conventional virus.

In response to this, Prime Minister Kishida discussed with Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto on the night of January 14 at the Prime Minister's Office regarding the waiting period for close contacts.

After this, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto revealed to reporters that the waiting period will be shortened from the current 14 days to 10 days so that social functions can be maintained.

Furthermore, in addition to medical workers, police, firefighters, public transportation, nursing care and childcare, etc., "essential workers" who support society and livelihoods, are judged by the local government to be 6 days from the date of the last contact with an infected person. It is a policy to cancel the waiting period if the PCR test and antigen quantitative test performed on the first day, or the antigen qualitative test performed on the 6th and 7th days are consecutively negative.

In addition, in municipalities that have been replaced by the Omicron strain, the genome analysis that is currently being performed for those other than those infected with the Delta strain is omitted, and all infected people are considered to be infected with the Omicron strain. We also made it clear that we will be able to handle

And Minister Goto said, "While continuing to collect scientific knowledge on the infectivity of the Omicron strain and the risk of aggravation, we will fully operate the local medical system and take the initiative to respond to the spread of infection in Japan. I want to continue."

Back to Table of Contents

"Fever of about 40 degrees is quite painful" Omicron strain infected person talks (1/14)

January 14, 2022

As the number of people infected with the new coronavirus rapidly increased due to the Omicron strain, which is said to be highly contagious, a man who was infected with the Omicron strain responded to an interview, saying, "I had a fever of about 40 degrees and it was quite painful. My wife and children were also infected," he said.

On January 6, a male office worker in his 30s living in the Tokyo metropolitan area developed symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and cough. , The public health center informed me that I was infected with the Omicron strain.

Before the onset of symptoms, I traveled nearby with my family alone, but I did not have the opportunity to participate in drinking parties, etc. I don't know. I'm guessing it's somewhere on the trip.I haven't met an infected person or been in close contact, so I don't really know where I got it."

The man is recuperating at home while taking prescribed cough medicine and fever-lowering medicine.

At the beginning of the onset, the fever rose to about 40 degrees, but the fever subsided in about 3 days.

However, on January 13, more than a week after the onset of symptoms, he still had a cough and malaise. The temperature was so high that I couldn't sleep at night.I also had a runny nose and diarrhea."

I lived with my wife and two children, a total of four people, and I avoided contact as much as possible at home and thoroughly disinfected, but after that, my wife and three-year-old child were infected with the new coronavirus. that has been confirmed.

The man said, "The news reported that the infection is highly contagious, but I realized that. I hope my family will not become seriously ill and recover quickly."

Also, about the future, he said, "I'm worried about infecting another child. Also, I'm worried because I don't know how the aftereffects will affect me."

Back to Table of Contents

The number of people infected with the new corona nationwide continues to increase rapidly, leading to an unprecedented spread of infection (1/14)

January 14, 2022

Comparing the weekly average number of new infections with the new coronavirus, the number of infected people nationwide has continued to increase rapidly since the beginning of January, and Okinawa Prefecture, where priority measures such as preventing the spread of the virus, have been applied. In addition to the three prefectures, the infection is spreading at an unprecedented pace not only in the big cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Aichi, but also all over the country.

NHK has summarized the trends in the number of new infections on average per week, compared to the previous week, based on the number of infected people announced by local governments.

Nationwide: 6.69 times by January 13, continuing to increase

▽ 1.12 times compared to the previous week in the week until December 16, 2021, ▽ December 23, 2021 On December 30, 2021, it gradually increased to 1.45 times, ▽ 1.60 times on December 30, 2021, but as the infection with the Omicron strain spread, ▽ 4.86 times on January 6, ▽ 6.69 times by January 13 And the pace of increase continues to increase.

The number of new infections per day is about 9525, which is about the same level as mid-September 2021, and the number of infected people is rapidly increasing in all prefectures.

Regions where priority measures are applied

In areas where priority measures such as spread prevention are applied, the infection continues to spread rapidly.

[Okinawa Prefecture] ▽1 week until December 30, 2021: 3.59 times the previous week, ▽10.86 times on January 6, ▽4.62 times until January 13, continuing a rapid increase. I'm here. The number of new infections per day is about 1389, and the number of infected people per 100,000 population in the last week is 669.03, which is the highest in Japan.

[Hiroshima Prefecture] ▽ 3.60 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 36.67 times for January 6, ▽ 6.53 times for January 13, new per day The number of infected people is 616, and the number of infected people per 100,000 people in the last week is 153.78.

[Yamaguchi Prefecture] ▽ 5.50 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 14.30 times for January 6, ▽ 2.39 times for January 13, new per day The number of infected people is about 161, and the number of infected people per 100,000 people in the last week is 83.14.

Tokyo and 3 prefectures

The pace of increase in the Tokyo metropolitan area has increased since the beginning of January, and the infection is spreading at an unprecedented speed.

[Tokyo] ▽ 1.65 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 4.48 times for January 6, ▽ 6.90 times by January 13 increase. The number of new infections per day is about 1503, and the number of infections per 100,000 population in the last week is 75.60.

[Kanagawa Prefecture] ▽ 1.16 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 2.23 times for January 6, ▽ 8.48 times by January 13, 1 The daily number of new infections is about 477.

[Saitama Prefecture] ▽ 1.54 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 4.42 times for January 6, ▽ 8.87 times for January 13, 1 The daily number of new infections is about 414.

[Chiba Prefecture] ▽ 0.91 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 6.00 times for January 6, ▽ 7.88 times by January 13, 1 The daily number of new infections is 324.

Kansai

Even in Kansai, the rapid spread of infections continues, mainly in Osaka and Hyogo prefectures.

[Osaka Prefecture] ▽ 1.96 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 4.57 times for January 6, ▽ 6.67 times until January 13, continuing to expand rapidly I'm here. The number of new infections per day is about 1102, and the number of infections per 100,000 population in the last week is 87.56.

[Kyoto Prefecture] ▽ 2.57 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 2.79 times for January 6, ▽ 5.64 times for January 13, 1 The daily number of new infections is 254.

[Hyogo Prefecture] ▽ 1.78 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 2.89 times for January 6, ▽ 9.88 times by January 13, 1 The daily number of new infections is about 326.

Chubu

The infection is spreading rapidly in the Chubu region as well.

[Aichi Prefecture] ▽ 2.03 times the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 5.39 times for January 6, ▽ 9.73 times for January 13, 1 The daily number of new infections is about 457.

[Gifu Prefecture] ▽ 30.00 times the previous week for the week until January 6, ▽ 6.77 times for the week until January 13, and the number of new infections per day was 87. I'm here.

[Mie Prefecture] ▽ Until December 30, 2021, almost no infected people were confirmed, but after that, it gradually increased, and ▽ the week until January 6 was the previous week's number. 5.33 times, ▽ 27.31 times by January 13, and the number of new infections per day is about 62.

Others

[Hokkaido] ▽ 1.28 times compared to the previous week for the week until December 30, 2021, ▽ 1.41 times for January 6, ▽ until January 13 has increased 5.35 times, and the number of new infections per day is about 156.

Also, in the week until January 6, fewer than 10 people were confirmed to be infected, and the number of infected people was increasing rapidly even in areas where the infection had not spread. Compared to the previous week, ▽ 45.3 times in Toyama Prefecture, ▽ 11.4 times in Tokushima Prefecture, ▽ 21.5 times in Miyazaki Prefecture, etc., is an unprecedented spread of infection.

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, "Think about the possibility of the 5th wave and take countermeasures"

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on countermeasures against the new coronavirus, is currently ``The increase is accelerating. In the United States and Europe, the number of infected people in Japan is about 100,000 per day. We need to take countermeasures considering the possibility of creating waves that are larger than the waves."

On top of that, ``we need to take measures in consideration of the possibility that the explosive increase in the number of infected people and close contacts may occur not only in Okinawa but also in other areas, and medical care may be overwhelmed.On the other hand, In South Africa and other countries, after the rapid spread of infection, a sharp decrease is also seen.First of all, the next week or two is important, and it is important to overcome the peak as early as possible and move in the direction of converging the infection. It's very important," he said.

In addition, Professor Tateda said about the required countermeasures, "It has been reported that the Omicron strain spreads through eating and drinking. It is not something that is spreading in such a situation or in a situation where ventilation is in place.It is important to take basic infection control measures as has been said, and in the field of essential workers such as medical care. In order to reduce as much as possible the number of close contacts and the inability to return to work, it will be necessary to shorten the waiting period while ensuring safety and show new standards. It is important for people to receive the third vaccination as soon as possible."

Back to Table of Contents

Government Policy to Shorten Waiting Period for Close Contacts of Corona from 14 Days (1/14)

January 14, 2022

Amid the rapid spread of the new corona infection, the government plans to shorten the waiting period for close contacts at accommodation facilities from 14 days so that social functions can be maintained. Experts have proposed that it should be shortened to 10 days in principle, and that it should be considered to be shortened to 7 days if necessary. I will decide on concrete measures together with the ministers.

On January 13, the number of new coronavirus infections per day was over 3,100 in Tokyo and about 2,400 in Osaka, indicating an unprecedented rapid spread of infection nationwide. increase.

Prime Minister Kishida pointed out, "There are still many unknowns about the Omicron strain, and we need to take flexible measures." He indicated that he would consider shortening the waiting period.

Government subcommittee members should shorten the waiting period for close contacts from 14 days to 10 days in principle, and consider shortening it to 7 days if it is necessary to continue social activities. Based on this proposal, Prime Minister Kishida will decide on specific measures with the relevant ministers on January 14th.

On the other hand, the government has pointed out that ``the number of new infections nationwide may increase further over the next week.'' In order to maintain social activities, companies are requested to prepare BCP (Business Continuity Plan) as soon as possible.

Depending on the future infection situation, the government will have no choice but to consider expanding to large cities and some areas in addition to the three prefectures that have already applied priority measures such as spread prevention. However, we would like to continue to strengthen our measures and put the brakes on the worsening of the situation.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Strain Infection Spreads at an Unprecedented Speed, Certainly Severe (1/13)

January 13, 2022

The speed of the spread of the new coronavirus infection is much faster than before due to the new mutant virus, the Omicron strain.

On the other hand, it is said that the Omicron strain is less likely to become severe, and there are voices saying that it is okay to be infected.

However, it is expected that the elderly will become severely ill to some extent, and even if the rate of becoming severely ill is low, if the number of infected people increases significantly, the number of severely ill people will increase, which may lead to a medical crisis. Experts are urging us to take precautions.

"Increase in severe cases" after the spread of infection to the elderly

The new coronavirus is more likely to spread the more people are in contact with each other, and the younger generations who are active and have a low rate of becoming severe Since the infection spreads from the beginning, there were many people with mild symptoms at first, and the number of people with severe symptoms increased after the infection spread to the elderly and those with underlying diseases.

According to the data presented by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the likelihood of becoming seriously ill is 1 in the 30s, 0.2 times in the teens, 0.3 times in the 20s, but 4 times in the 40s, 50 10 times for those in their 60s, 25 times for those in their 70s, 47 times for those in their 70s, 71 times for those in their 80s, and 78 times for those in their 90s.

The WHO report also states that the Omicron strain has a lower rate of becoming severe than the Delta strain, while the WHO says, ``In people who are older, have underlying diseases, and have not been vaccinated, even the Omicron strain can develop severe disease. The rate of change will increase,” he said.

In Japan, the spread of infection due to the Omicron strain has been in full swing since the beginning of this year. Approximately 75% of infected people were under the age of 30 in the week ending on January 11, and more than 95% of infected people were reported to be asymptomatic or mild as of January 12.

As in the past, there are concerns that the spread of infection will spread to the elderly and the number of severely ill people will increase in the future.

Is there an increase in the number of severely ill patients about two weeks after the increase in the number of infected people? Patients are said to require oxygen administration in about 1 week after onset, and about 5% require treatment using a ventilator, even if the symptoms are mild at the beginning of the onset.

In many cases, it takes a certain amount of time for the infection to become severe, and in the 5th wave in the summer of 2021, the peak number of infected people per day was 25,992 on August 20. However, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of hospitalized patients peaked at 24,081 on September 1, and the number of severely ill patients peaked at 2,223 on September 4, two weeks after the peak of the number of infected people.

Even with the spread of infection by the Omicron strain this time, there is a risk that the number of hospitalized patients and the number of severely ill patients will increase about two weeks after the increase in the number of infected people. points out that there is

Increase in the number of hospitalized patients may lead to a medical crisis

Another problem is that the Omicron strain is more infectious than the mutated virus so far, so even if the rate of severe cases is low, There is a risk that the number of patients who will be hospitalized will increase significantly and the medical system will be overwhelmed.

British data show that the risk of hospitalization for the Omicron strain is one-third that of the Delta strain, while the Omicron strain is up to three times more contagious than the Delta strain.

In the UK, the number of new infections has exceeded 200,000 per day, more than triple the peak since the summer of 2021 when the Delta strain spread, and according to health authorities, more than 2,000 people have been infected every day. The number of hospitalized patients has reached nearly 20,000 as of January 11, and the medical system is under pressure.

Also, according to the CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States, the number of infected people exceeded 1,406,500 per day on January 10, and the number of hospitalized patients reached a record high of over 140,000. load is increasing.

In Okinawa Prefecture, where the infection has spread the most in Japan, some time has passed since the spread of infection began, and as of January 12, the utilization rate of secured beds was 47.1%, and the use of secured beds for severe patients was 47.1%. The rate is 51.4%, and the burden on medical institutions is increasing.

Expert ``The situation will not change to require caution''

Experts say that even in Japan, even if the number of people who need hospitalization is low, even if the number of people who become severely ill if the infection explodes, We are wary that the number will increase and the medical system may be overwhelmed.

Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with overseas infectious diseases, said, ``Currently, many young people are infected, but if it spreads to the elderly, it may be more likely to become severe. There is no change in the fact that it is a situation that requires caution,” he said.

Back to Table of Contents

Standby for close contacts of Omicron stock “In principle, 10 days” expert proposal (1/13)

January 13, 2022

Regarding the period in which close contacts of people infected with the Omicron strain wait at home or in facilities, experts working on new coronavirus countermeasures have shortened the current 14 days to 10 days in principle, and continue social activities. We have put together a proposal that we should consider shortening to 7 days if it is necessary.

This proposal was compiled by members of the government's subcommittee and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting.

In the proposal, the rapid increase in infected people and close contacts with Omicron strains has increased the burden on social activities, and even medical workers become close contacts and cannot work, further straining the medical system. It is said that there is a situation, and it is important to shorten the waiting period for health observation of close contacts, which is currently 14 days.

On top of that, the Omicron strain has an incubation period of about 3 days, which is shorter than the 5 days of the conventional virus, and it has been reported that the virus will not be discharged in 7 to 9 days even if infected. In principle, the waiting period should be shortened to 10 days.

On the other hand, if it is necessary to both prevent the spread of infection and continue social activities, we should accept a very small risk and consider shortening it to 7 days.

In addition, in the case of medical workers, if it is possible to confirm a negative test or take measures against nosocomial infection, the waiting period will end if the test is negative on the fifth day after the last contact with the infected person. In addition, I suggested that we consider options such as confirming a negative test every day so that we can work.

Back to Table of Contents

Prime Minister Considering shortening the waiting period for accommodation facilities for close contacts of Omicron strains (1/13)

January 13, 2022

Regarding the response to Omicron strains, Prime Minister Kishida indicated that he would consider shortening the waiting period for those who have had close contact with them at accommodation facilities, etc., so that social functions can be maintained even if the infection spreads rapidly. rice field.

For close contacts of people infected with the Omicron strain, the government is asking them to wait for 14 days at accommodation facilities, etc. There are voices asking for

Prime Minister Kishida told reporters in Tokyo, ``There are still many unknowns about Omicron stock, and flexible responses are necessary. It has also been pointed out that we must devise ways to prevent it from becoming difficult."

After that, he said, ``We will consider flexible measures such as how the isolation period for close contacts should be, if necessary,'' and indicated that he would consider shortening the waiting period.

On the other hand, in order to reduce the burden on medical institutions, Prime Minister Kishida plans to lower the treatment of the new corona under the Infectious Disease Law from the current "type 2 equivalent" to "type 5", which is the same as seasonal influenza. When asked if there would be any change, he expressed a negative view, saying, "In the situation where the infection is rapidly expanding, the change is not realistic."

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno ``Hurry to consider countermeasures''

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference in the morning, ``There are various reports that the Omicron strain has a shorter incubation period than the Delta strain. It is being done in foreign research.We are hurrying to consider how to deal with the quarantine period of close contacts, such as collecting scientific knowledge."

In addition, regarding the risk of exacerbation of Omicron strains, "Risk assessments are being conducted by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, etc., and we would like to continue to consider countermeasures based on such assessments and scientific knowledge in Japan and overseas. ' said.

Representative Komeito Yamaguchi ``Make a concrete decision as soon as possible''

Representative Yamaguchi of the Komeito Party said at the party's central board of directors, ``The number of doctors and nurses who cannot act as close contacts has increased, and this situation has worsened. If it spreads, it will affect essential workers and greatly restrict social activities.The party proposed to shorten the waiting period, and the government took it seriously and made a concrete decision as soon as possible. I want it," he said.

Also, regarding the third vaccination, "There is a need in the field to accelerate while utilizing mass vaccinations and large-scale vaccinations, but local governments need to confirm when and how much vaccine will be distributed. It is also difficult to take concrete measures.The most important thing is to promote vaccination efficiently, so I would like the government and the ruling party to work together."

Back to Table of Contents

More than 10,000 people infected with the new corona: What we learned about the Omicron strain (1/12)

January 12, 2022

"Omicron strain" is spreading at an unprecedented pace.

There have been a series of reports from all over the world showing the strength of the infection, and while it has become clear that it is difficult to prevent the onset with two vaccinations, there are increasing reports that the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is low. increase.

However, in Europe and the United States, the number of infected people has increased significantly, and the number of hospitalized people has also increased sharply so as to outweigh the reduced risk of hospitalization. In Japan, infections caused by the Omicron strain have actually spread rapidly, and in Okinawa, there have been reports of infections among medical workers, and it is becoming a reality that there will be a shortage of medical workers. What will happen to the risk of infection and aggravation, and the burden on medical care?

A summary of what we have learned so far. (As of January 12, 2022)

The number of infected people in Omicron strains has increased rapidly, and it has been pointed out that the “sixth wave” of infections

Infection with the new coronavirus is spreading rapidly.

With an unprecedented surge of more than 10 times the previous week in Okinawa Prefecture and Tokyo, the government will focus on preventing the spread of infection from January 9, 2022 in the three prefectures of Okinawa, Yamaguchi, and Hiroshima. measures are applied.

The first case of community-acquired infection in Japan was reported in Osaka Prefecture on December 22, 2021, and the number of infected people nationwide was about 250 at that time.

On January 4, 2022, it exceeded 1,000 people for the first time in about three months with 1265 people, and then on January 12, a little over a week later, it reached 10,000 people for the first time in about four months. Exceeded.

It has only been three weeks since the first community-acquired infection was reported, but in Okinawa and Osaka prefectures, the Delta strain has already been replaced by the Omicron strain.

There is a risk that the infection will spread even more rapidly during the three consecutive holidays from last weekend, the coming-of-age ceremony and related gatherings, and some experts point out that the sixth wave of infection spread by the Omicron strain has begun. There is also

WHO clearly states that "infectivity is increasing"

WHO = The World Health Organization stated in its weekly report dated January 11 that the infectivity of the Omicron strain was "increasing." I specified.

WHO says that the "doubling time" it takes for the cumulative number of infected people to double is shorter for Omicron strains than for previous mutant viruses.

At the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expert meeting held on January 6, the data presented by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases group estimated as of January 5 that the doubling time in the last week was It was 1.3 days in Okinawa, 1.7 days in Osaka, and 1.9 days in Tokyo.

In the WHO weekly report, we introduced the results of an analysis in Denmark in December 2021 that the "secondary infection rate" in the household was 21% for the Delta strain and 31% for the Omicron strain. increase.

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States has data that the infectivity of the Omicron strain is up to three times that of the Delta strain.

In Europe and the United States, the replacement of delta strains with Omicron strains progressed rapidly.

In the UK, by December 30, 2021, around 95% of new coronaviruses detected in most parts of England are believed to be Omicron strains.

According to the CDC, in the United States, the share of Omicron stocks was 98.3% in the week ending January 8th, which is considered to have almost replaced.

Even in Japan, according to a trial calculation by a group of Hokkaido University and Kyoto University, it is expected that the percentage of Omicron stocks in Osaka Prefecture will exceed 90% around January 15th.

In addition, the incubation period from infection to the onset of symptoms is short, and the pace of increase in the number of infected people is also faster than before.

The incubation period is about 3 days, which is shorter than 4.8 days for non-Omicron strains, according to provisional data from an active epidemiological survey in Okinawa Prefecture.

Analysis of infection cases in South Korean health facilities also showed 3.6 days, which is shorter than 3 to 5 days for Delta strain.

Risk of aggravation ↓ also needs to be watched carefully

There is an increasing possibility that the rate of aggravation in case of infection is low.

The WHO summarized in its January 11 weekly report that the risk of hospitalization and severe illness from the Omicron strain "appears to be decreasing."

In addition, on January 4, the person in charge of WHO said that although the symptoms of the Omicron strain are likely to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, compared to other mutant viruses, the risk of reaching the lungs and becoming severe is of the opinion that is low.

On the other hand, he is cautious, saying, 'Further research is needed to prove it.'

Regarding the risk of aggravation due to the Omicron strain, early data from Okinawa Prefecture has been shown in Japan.

Analyzing the symptoms when the number of patients reached 650, ▼ on April 1, 2021, when the conventional strain was prevalent, 0.6% were severe, and 84.8% were asymptomatic or mild. , ▼ On July 18, 2021, when the alpha strain was prevalent, 0.9% were severe and 72.8% were asymptomatic or mild, whereas on January 4, 2022, when the Omicron strain was the center. , 0% were severe, and 92.3% were asymptomatic or mild.

However, experts say that young people are overwhelmingly infected with the Omicron strain in Okinawa at the moment, and if the infection spreads to the elderly in the future, the number of severe cases may increase. increase.

Also, according to the UK health authorities, the risk of hospitalization due to infection with the Omicron strain is one-third that of the Delta strain.

Additionally, those who completed their second dose of the vaccine more than 14 days later were 65% less likely to be hospitalized than those who had not been vaccinated, and those who received their third booster dose were 14 days less likely to be hospitalized. It was 81% lower for those with more than a day.

But be careful when looking at this data.

It is said that the 3rd booster vaccination will increase the effect of preventing the Omicron strain from becoming severe, but in the UK, people who have completed the 3rd booster vaccination will be on January 10, 2022. It is up to 62.3% at the time.

In Japan, as of January 12th, it is very different in that it remains at 0.8%.

Despite the fact that the risk of hospitalization has decreased, the number of infected people is so large that the number of hospitalizations, severe cases, and deaths has increased significantly, placing a heavy burden on the medical system. I'm assuming there is.

In the United States, on January 3rd, the number of reported infections on the first day exceeded 1 million, the most serious situation ever.

The number of children infected has also increased rapidly, and in the week leading up to January 6, the number of new infections among children reached 580,000, a record high.

In particular, the hospitalization rate for children under the age of 4 who have not reached the target age for vaccination is increasing, and according to the CDC, the hospitalization rate for this age group is 4.3 per 100,000 population by January 1st. , up from 2.6 people the week before.

Vaccine Effect

It has been reported that even vaccinated people can be infected with the Omicron strain.

The WHO said in its weekly report dated January 11 that the risk of reinfection is rising.

In addition, regarding the effect of two vaccinations, it is said that ``the effect of preventing infection and onset may be reduced, and the effect of preventing aggravation may also be reduced.''

According to the data shown by the British health authorities, the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines against the Omicron strain are 65-70% effective in preventing the disease two to four weeks after two doses. However, it decreased to about 10% after 20 weeks.

When people who received two doses of Pfizer vaccine received a third booster dose of either Pfizer or Moderna, the protection increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

However, it dropped to 55-70% after 5 to 9 weeks, and to 40-50% after 10 weeks.

On the other hand, the effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is higher than the effect of preventing the onset.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc., such as infectivity and pathogenicity I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

▼Infectivity Data showing the strength of the infectivity of the Omicron strain has been reported from various countries, and the strength of the infectivity is becoming certain.

▼ Pathogenic ``alpha strain'' → high risk of hospitalization, aggravation, and death ``beta strain'' → high risk of hospitalization and high mortality rate during hospitalization ``gamma strain'' → risk of hospitalization and aggravation High possibility “Delta strain” → High risk of hospitalization “Omicron strain” → Low risk of hospitalization and severity

There have been a series of reports that the Omicron strain has a lower risk of hospitalization and aggravation than the Delta strain.

On the other hand, British health authorities believe that even though Omicron strains have a low risk of severe disease, they do not necessarily reduce the burden on medical institutions due to the speed of the spread of infection and the nature of escaping immunity. I emphasize that it doesn't matter.

In Europe and the United States, the number of infected people has increased dramatically, and the number of hospitalized people has also increased rapidly.

▼Risk of re-infection "Alpha strain" Antibody activity that suppresses the virus is maintained, is the risk of reinfection the same as the conventional strain? The activity is maintained "gamma strain" The activity of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced "Delta strain" The activity of the antibody that suppresses the virus is reduced "Omicron strain" The risk of reinfection increases According to WHO, people with immunity due to vaccines or past infections However, it is said that there is a mutation that makes it easier to reinfect.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

▼ Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine) "Alpha strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, or aggravation "Beta strain" → No change in prevention of onset or aggravation "Gamma strain" → No change in infection prevention, onset prevention, and prevention of aggravation "Delta strain" → No change in infection prevention, onset prevention, and aggravation prevention (reported that infection prevention and onset prevention are reduced) "Omicron strain" → Onset prevention effect There are also reports that it is effective in preventing reductions and aggravation.There are also reports that the third vaccination is effective in preventing onset and aggravation.

There have been reports of cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who have completed vaccination.

There is data showing that although the effect of preventing the onset of the disease decreases with time after vaccination, the effect of preventing aggravation is maintained to a certain extent.

In addition, there are reports that the third booster vaccination is effective in preventing the onset and severity of the disease.

▼Effects of therapeutic drugs Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective.

On December 16, 2021, the American pharmaceutical company "Regeneron", which developed it, issued a statement that "the effect will be reduced against the Omicron strain", and the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare was infected with the Omicron strain. It is not recommended for use in patients.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

A research group at the University of Tokyo and others investigated the substances released into the body when the oral drug ``mornupiravir'' for mild patients was administered, and the effects of ``remdesivir'' administered to patients with moderate or higher symptoms. We are introducing the experimental results that the same effect as the delta strain was obtained for the strain.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

▼Infection route The new coronavirus infection route is mainly small droplets called "micro-droplets" that float in a closed room, and contact by touching the nose or mouth with a virus-covered hand. Infection has also been reported.

There is a possibility that the Omicron strain may be more infectious, but it is believed to be the same route of infection.

Experts "Be more careful than ever"

Regarding the fact that the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus is said to have a lower rate of becoming severe than before, the infection situation overseas Atsuro Hamada, a specially appointed professor at Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with ``There is data that the risk of developing severe symptoms of the Omicron strain is about one-third that of the Delta strain, but as the number of infected people increases, the number of people who become seriously ill increases. Currently, most of the infected people are young people, but if it spreads to the elderly, it is possible that they are more likely to become seriously ill. I was.

Also, regarding the fact that the Omicron strain is said to be more infectious than the Delta strain, "It is said that the Omicron strain tends to stick to the upper respiratory tract, the nose and throat, where it easily multiplies. Therefore, it is thought that the virus is likely to be spread around by sneezing or coughing, making it easier to infect people.There was a case in which a person who was having a barbecue outdoors was infected with the Delta strain, but the Omicron strain is more contagious. I want you to be more careful than ever.I want you to continue to take measures such as wearing a mask, washing your hands, and avoiding crowds, and if you are able to receive a booster vaccination," he said. .

Furthermore, in the future, Project Professor Hamada said, ``There is a possibility that the number of infected people will increase greatly due to the Omicron strain. However, if the infection spreads among medical workers, it will lead to a strain on medical care, and if more people are absent from energy-related companies and transportation, it will affect social functions. "It could have a huge impact on the economy," he said.

Countermeasures remain the same

Currently, research on the infectivity and pathogenicity of the Omicron strain is underway around the world, and the WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases have updated the information. I'm planning to do it.

The measures we can take are the same as before.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

Sudden spread of new corona Omicron strain infection, domestic infections and home treatment (1/12)

January 12, 2022

The number of new coronavirus infections announced on January 12 exceeded 10,000 nationwide. It will be the first time since September 9, 2021 that the daily number of new infections will exceed 10,000.

As the infection spreads, the medical field is responding by prescribing newly approved oral medicines for cases where the infection spreads at home and for home care patients who are at risk of becoming severe.

At the pediatric clinic in Minato-ku, Tokyo, there have been no infected people since September 2021, but since the beginning of this year, patients have started to appear, and on January 12, in the morning, they had a slight fever. An 11-year-old elementary school student who visited complaining of pain was confirmed to be infected.

It is said that all of the infected people so far have been mild, but some of them have domestic infections of five family members.

Infection at home Five family members one after another...

This is a case of infection at home in a family of five confirmed at a pediatric clinic in Minato-ku, Tokyo.

First, on January 4th, an elementary school child complained of a fever in the high 38s and tested positive.

From that night, the two younger siblings had a fever of 39 degrees, and the mother also began to have a slight fever of 37 degrees.

The next day, all of them tested positive, including the grandmother who had no symptoms, and two days later, they were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain.

There is no known route of infection other than playing at an indoor amusement facility with his family two days before the onset of symptoms.

My mother and my grandmother, who is in her 60s, had been vaccinated twice, but my grandmother had underlying medical conditions, so my doctor gave her an approved oral medication at the end of the year.

The two children and their mother had no symptoms other than fever, the youngest child had a fever and cough, and the grandmother, who had no symptoms at first, had a runny nose and sore throat, but all had mild symptoms. That's it.

The fever subsided in 1 to 3 days, and all symptoms disappeared on the 5th day of onset. It is a possible result.

All five family members will continue to recuperate at home until January 14th.

The doctor who examined the family ``It is necessary to detect it early.'' On the other hand, it is suggested that it is highly contagious, as it spreads at once in the home, so if there are elderly people or people with underlying diseases at home, if you have cold-like symptoms, you can use a simple kit available on the market. In many cases, the symptoms are relatively mild, so it is also possible to consider how to maintain children's school and social life while thoroughly implementing basic infection control measures. Isn't it necessary?" he said.

In Tokyo, where there is a rapid increase in the number of people receiving medical care at home, prescriptions for oral medicine are also being prescribed. We are taking measures such as prescribing newly approved oral medicines for the new coronavirus.

Due to the rapid spread of the new corona infection, the number of home care patients in Tokyo reached 2,416 as of January 11, a 15-fold increase in the past week. A group of doctors called "Call Doctors" who make home visits to home care patients have begun prescribing the newly approved new corona oral drug "Molnupiravir" to those at risk of severe illness.

This oral medicine is intended for those who are 18 years of age or older and who are at risk of severe disease among patients with mild to moderate symptoms within 5 days of onset.

On January 7, a man in his 50s with diabetes mellitus had persistent fever and cough. At this time, three days after the onset of symptoms, the doctor judged that there was a risk of aggravation from the condition of the chronic disease, etc. I explained that I should take 4 tablets twice a day, 40 tablets for 5 days.

In addition, a man in his 50s in Tokyo with kidney disease had a fever of 38 degrees and a cough, and he consulted that he was having flu-like symptoms and felt pain in his body. This man was also on the 4th day after the onset, judged that there was a risk of aggravation, and prescribed oral medicine. Both had been vaccinated twice.

The doctor who made the house call ``Thorough basic infection control measures''

Dr. I get the impression that the percentage of people who are infected or who have had close contact with the virus is high, and oral medicine is a new treatment option. "Although we will reduce the number of people, I think the problem is that the effect is a little weak. We need to reduce the number of dinner parties and thoroughly implement basic infection control measures."

Back to Table of Contents

Most of the stocks will be replaced with Omicron stocks in half a month in Osaka Prefecture (1/11)

January 11, 2022

When Osaka Prefecture investigated the infection status of the new coronavirus mutation virus, it was found that most of them had been replaced with Omicron strains in about half a month until the beginning of January. The prefectural government is calling for vigilance as the infection of the Omicron strain will continue to spread.

In order to understand the spread of the Omicron strain in the city, from December to January 2021, Osaka Prefecture will target all people infected with the new corona from the ratio of the delta strain of another mutant virus. A screening test was conducted to check the status.

If infection with the Delta strain is not confirmed, infection with the Omicron strain is suspected. Recently, the test results from December 1, 2021 to January 5, 2022 have been compiled. .

Accordingly, on December 13, 2021, one person was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain for the first time.

Since then, the percentage of people suspected of being infected has increased, and as of December 22, 2021, when the prefecture announced that community-acquired infections were confirmed for the first time, the number of people suspected of being infected had reached 50%. I understand.

This is because it takes several days to confirm and announce the infection with the Omicron strain after collecting the specimen, so at this point, about half the rate has already been replaced. .

After that, the percentage of people suspected of being infected with the Omicron strain increased rapidly, reaching 87.3% on January 1st and 100% on January 5th. was replaced with the Omicron strain.

The prefecture believes that most of the infected people are currently infected with the Omicron strain, and is calling for vigilance that the infection will continue to spread.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain vaccine may leave the virus for about 10 days even with mild symptoms (1/8)

January 8, 2022

Even if people infected with the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus have been vaccinated, there is a possibility that a PCR test that is commonly performed for about 10 days will be positive, such as the National Center for Global Health and Medicine. group reported. Even if the symptoms are mild due to the vaccine, the virus may remain for the same period as those who have not been vaccinated, so it is important to take measures against infection.

Groups such as the National Center for Global Health and Medicine conducted daily PCR tests on 11 patients aged 1 to 64 who were infected with the Omicron strain.

The PCR test amplifies part of the viral gene, and in Japan, if the number of times of amplification is about 35 times and the gene is sufficiently detected, it is said that the person is infected with the new coronavirus.

Of the 11 patients, 10, excluding one child, had been vaccinated twice and all had mild symptoms, but analysis showed that it took 10.6 days to be detected even if amplified 35 times. I understand the result.

Even if the group is vaccinated and the symptoms are mild, the virus may remain for the same amount of time as those who have not been vaccinated, and it is still possible to take infection control measures such as wearing a mask and ventilation. I think it's important.

Dr. Sho Saito, who compiled the research, said, ``The patient had mild symptoms, but the virus will be excreted for a certain period of time, so it is quite possible that the elderly will be infected at home. We need to take action to reduce the number of infections," he said.

Back to Table of Contents

“Omicron Strain Explosive Increase in Infections” What Measures Are Needed Now…(1/7)

January 7, 2022

"The sixth wave of infection spread nationwide"

On January 7, as experts pointed out, 1414 people were confirmed to be infected in Okinawa Prefecture, where the application of priority measures such as epidemic prevention was decided, and 429 people were confirmed to be infected in Hiroshima Prefecture, both of which were the highest ever. , Yamaguchi Prefecture also had 180 people, the second highest ever. In addition, the number of infected people in Tokyo has increased to about 12 times that of Friday a week ago.

Tomorrow, for the three consecutive holidays from January 8th, experts are once again appealing for thorough measures to avoid further spread of infection. What are the necessary measures now?

■Sudden spread of infection in January

Comparing the number of new coronavirus infections on a weekly basis, the pace of increase in the number of infected people nationwide in January has increased. The number has risen sharply, especially in the three prefectures where the application of priority measures such as epidemic prevention has been decided.

▽ 1.10 times compared to the previous week in the week until December 9, 2021 ▽ 1.12 times on December 16, 2021 ▽ 1.45 times on December 23, 2021 ▽ 12, 2021 It increased gradually to 1.60 times on the 30th of the month, but by January 6th, the pace of increase has increased significantly to 4.86 times.

▽ 1.80 times the previous week for the week until December 23, 2021 ▽ 3.59 times for December 30, 2021 ▽ 10.86 times by January 6, sharply in January is expanding to

▽The week until December 23, 2021 is 3.00 times the previous week ▽December 30, 2021 is 5.50 times ▽By January 6, it has expanded sharply to 14.30 times .

▽ Until December 21, 2021, the number of infected people had not been confirmed, but gradually increased ▽ December 30, 2021 was 3.60 times the previous week ▽ Until January 6 is expanding rapidly to 36.67 times.

■ “Doubling time” less than 2 days “Possibility of rapid increase in Tokyo and Osaka prefectures in a week” It is estimated that it will take less than 2 days for the cumulative number of cases to double.

At the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expert meeting held on January 6, a group from the National Institute of Infectious Diseases identified the cumulative number of infected people as one of the indicators of the speed at which the new coronavirus spreads. The estimated result of "doubling time" is shown.

Based on the data as of January 5, the "doubling time" in the last week was 1.3 days in Okinawa, 1.7 days in Osaka, and 1.9 days in Tokyo. about it. In Okinawa Prefecture, the doubling time seems to be shorter due to the fact that the replacement with Omicron strains progressed at an earlier stage than in Tokyo and Osaka Prefectures.

The doubling time varies depending on the infection status, but reports from the United Kingdom and other countries indicate that the Omicron strain is shorter than the epidemic centered on the delta strain.

Infectious Disease Epidemiology Center Director Motoi Suzuki of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases said, "The rapid increase in the number of infected people in Okinawa Prefecture is attracting attention, but there is a high possibility that it will also increase rapidly in Tokyo and Osaka Prefectures in the next week. Omicron The strain is said to have a lower risk of becoming severe than the delta strain, but if the number of infected people increases, the pressure on medical care and the impact on social activities will increase.

■ "Entered the 6th wave of the spread of infection"

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University (member of the government subcommittee) ・About the current infection situation "One day in two days In Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, and Okinawa, the number of infected people has doubled, and infections are being amplified.This is also seen at the national level, and the spread of infections nationwide has entered the sixth wave. I think this is the speed of the spread of infection by the Omicron strain, and the explosive increase in infections seen in Europe and the United States is also being seen in Japan.”

・About future prospects "The most severe situation so far was the 5th wave of the spread of infection, and in Tokyo, more than 5,000 people were infected in a day. Considering the rapid spread, it wouldn't be surprising if the number of infected people in Tokyo doubled to 5,000.It is important to take measures and actions to lower the peak of infection by sharing such a sense of crisis. We have to overcome this wave by making full use of our experience so far and effectively using preventive and therapeutic measures to avoid panic.”

■ “It becomes difficult to maintain social functions”

“If the infection with the Omicron strain rapidly spreads, the number of severely ill patients will increase to a certain extent, even if the rate of becoming severely ill is low. "Essential workers," who support society and livelihoods, will increase the number of people who cannot go to work, making it difficult to maintain social functions."

On the 7th, experts such as Shigeru Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, and Takashi Wakita, chairman of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, presented such an outlook and appealed for the urgent implementation of necessary measures.

1. If the infection continues to spread rapidly...

If the infection continues to spread rapidly... ▽Even if the rate of severe disease among young people is low, the infection spreads to the elderly at an early stage and the patients become seriously ill. ▽The sudden increase in the number of mildly ill people will increase the burden on local medical care and public health centers that investigate close contacts ▽People who cannot come to work as "essential workers" who support society and livelihoods, including medical workers It points out that it will be difficult to maintain social functions due to the rapid increase in the number of people.

2. Coming-of-Age Ceremony and Consecutive Holidays Starting This Weekend

Because of the possibility of further spread of infection during the Coming-of-Age Ceremony and consecutive holidays starting this weekend, we are requesting the following. ▽Participate in events such as coming-of-age ceremonies after being tested as much as possible and confirming that they are negative ▽In areas where infections are spreading, carefully judge drinking parties and dinner parties, and if you do, a certified restaurant ▽If you feel even slightly unwell, refrain from going out and get tested immediately and visit a medical institution ▽Continue to take measures such as wearing a mask, ventilating the room, and avoiding crowds

3. To Protect the Elderly

In order to protect the elderly from infection, we have requested the following: ▽ Accelerate booster vaccinations ▽ Resume regular inspections by administering boosters to employees of medical institutions and facilities for the elderly

4. To prevent the medical system from becoming overwhelmed

In order to prevent the medical system from becoming overwhelmed, he points out the following. ▽ Clinics and medical associations will cooperate in responding to patients who are recuperating at home or accommodation facilities ▽ Mild cases, such as accelerating the registration of medical institutions necessary for prescribing the newly approved new corona oral medicine Respond flexibly to people, etc.

5. For companies and others

Prepare for the spread of infection ▽Prepare a "business continuity plan" ▽Assuming that the number of absentees will increase due to the spread of infection, prioritize work ▽ Promotion of telework is necessary

■ ``Thorough countermeasures until further inoculations and distribution of oral drugs, etc.'' With the rapid expansion, it is expected that hospitals will not be able to provide care for patients on their own, and that the need for home care will increase. In addition, if the number of infected people swells, there will be a problem that the number of absentees will increase considerably in many industries, including medical institutions.In Okinawa, this kind of problem is actually occurring at medical institutions and it is difficult to maintain social functions. Furthermore, if the infection reaches the elderly, there is still a risk that a certain number of people will become seriously ill, so it is necessary to make it a top priority to promote additional vaccinations for the elderly as soon as possible. There is.

In addition, regarding future prospects, he said, "In today's subcommittee, there was an opinion that we should consider issuing an emergency declaration depending on the situation." It is not the case that such a situation will occur in Japan as a matter of course.I think the path to be taken is to overcome it with solid measures and priority measures."

And, ``According to domestic surveys so far, it has been reported that the spread of Omicron strain infection is occurring in the same situation as before, such as close contact, poor ventilation, and people talking nearby. At the individual level, it is still necessary to wear a mask, keep a distance, ventilate, etc. By mid-February, when booster vaccinations for the elderly and the distribution of oral medicines are progressing, the situation will increase. There is a possibility that the situation will change and we will see a brighter sign.In the meantime, it is necessary to take thorough countermeasures."

■Okinawa Yamaguchi Hiroshima Application of "spread prevention measures"

The government has decided to apply priority measures to prevent the spread of the virus from January 9 to the end of January in the three prefectures of Okinawa, Yamaguchi and Hiroshima. I decided. The three prefectures have been affected in various ways by the rapid spread of infection.

More than 1,000 people for the first time "It is difficult to maintain the functions of society"...

On January 7, 1,414 new confirmed infections were announced in Okinawa Prefecture, reaching 1,000 for the first time. , and set a record high for two days in a row.

Experts believe that the reason for the rapid increase in infections in Okinawa Prefecture is that the Omicron strain is highly contagious, that the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing infection is clearly declining, and that people come in contact with people they don't usually meet from Christmas to the end of the year. He notes that opportunities have increased, and that there may be more in the future.

And experts are pointing out that ``it will be difficult to maintain social functions'' is actually happening in medical settings in Okinawa.

1. More than 300 medical workers unable to work

In Okinawa Prefecture, there are 300 medical workers who are unable to work due to being infected with the new coronavirus or becoming close contacts. It means that general emergency medical care is tight beyond people.

Dr. Hideaki Sasaki of the Okinawa Red Cross Hospital, who serves as a medical coordinator at the Okinawa Prefecture New Corona Countermeasures Headquarters, said that as of 3:00 pm on January 7, there were 21 hospitals accepting new coronavirus patients in the prefecture. It was revealed that a total of 313 medical workers were unable to work due to being infected or becoming close contacts.

According to Dr. Sasaki, 88 of them were confirmed to be infected with the new corona, 5 doctors, 54 nurses, and 29 other medical workers.

Dr. Sasaki said that most of the cases were not hospitals, but cases in which people were infected at home or infected family members. It was completely unexpected that the number of people infected with the virus would increase."

On top of that, ``The new corona has managed to secure beds ahead of time, but the acceptance of general emergency services is tight. Ambulances are also being accepted at hospitals farther than usual. If the restrictions continue and the number of hospitals that impose restrictions increases, it will become more difficult to accept general emergency services."

In addition, assuming that the infection situation has not reached its peak and the infection of medical staff will further progress, we should think about how to operate the hospital when 30% to 40% of the staff cannot work. pointing out.

And, "In Okinawa, we have to think about what to do with society if not only medical workers but also people called essential workers can no longer work."

2. Restrictions on some medical services at hospitals

Furthermore, hospitals in Okinawa Prefecture are restricting the acceptance of emergency medical care and general medical care in response to the shortage of beds due to the rapid spread of infection. are one after another.

▽ Uruma City "Chubu Hospital" has restricted emergency medical care except for obstetrics and pediatrics from January 6th.

▽ Haebaru Town "Nanbu Medical Center / Children's Medical Center" General medical examination and hospitalization will be restricted from January 7 for the time being.

▽Nago City "Northern Hospital" and Miyakojima City's "Miyako Hospital" After January 11th, we have decided to postpone less urgent operations and examinations.

▽ Naha City "Okinawa Red Cross Hospital" (*other than prefectural hospitals) All emergency medical services have been suspended from January 6th to January 11th.

According to Okinawa Prefecture, the acceptance of patients has been limited due to the shortage of manpower due to the securing of beds for the new corona accompanying the rapid spread of infection and the number of infected people and close contacts among medical workers. It means that the number of locations is increasing.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has begun to provide support, such as deciding to dispatch doctors for the disaster dispatch medical team "DMAT".

Coming-of-age ceremony canceled or postponed in 13 municipalities

In Okinawa Prefecture, 24 municipalities planned to hold ceremonies on January 8 and 9, but the new coronavirus 13 municipalities have decided to cancel or postpone due to the rapid spread of infection.

▽ Tokashiki village ▽ Tonaki village ▽ Aguni village ▽ Kumejima town ▽ Yaese town ▽ Zamami village ▽ Yonabaru It means that you can use it for a commemorative photo.

▽Urasoe City, Itoman City, Uruma City, Ginowan City, and Chatan Town Urasoe City will hold Mountain Day on August 11, the middle day of the Bon Festival.

The city of Naha entrusts the decision to hold each of the 17 junior high school districts, but by 6:00 pm, 14 districts have decided to postpone, and the remaining three districts have decided to cancel or postpone.

Nago City, Tomigusuku City, Nanjo City, Haebaru Town, Kadena Town, Kitanakagusuku Village, Nakagusuku Village, Nishihara Town, Motobu Town, Okinawa City, and Yomitan Village Nago City saw the ceremony outdoors. In addition to using the drive-in theater method, which allows viewers to view the video on a large screen from inside the car, and the method of distribution via the Internet, Kitanakagusuku village has obtained the cooperation of 30 members of the Youth Association to conduct antigen tests for all attendees. I am going to do it.

Kimono shops that sell and dress kimonos for new adults are being contacted one after another about cancellations and postponements.

Among these, a kimono shop in Nishihara-cho, located in the central part of the main island of Okinawa, accepted reservations for kimono dressing from 12 new adults in total, but by the afternoon of January 7, half of them had canceled or postponed reservations. It means that

Taichi Uchima, the manager of "La Tansu Nishihara", said, "Some people want to keep pictures even if the coming-of-age ceremony is canceled, and some want to show their kimonos to their grandmothers. I feel sorry that the ceremony was canceled because there are few opportunities to wear a kimono, but I would like to firmly support new adults who want to wear a kimono."

Iwakuni "Confirmed cooperation with the US military to prevent infection"

In Yamaguchi Prefecture, 180 people were confirmed to be infected, the second highest in the past following 181 on January 6. It's been a lot. Iwakuni City held a task force meeting and revealed that Mayor Fukuda had a meeting with Commander Lewis of the US military base in Iwakuni, where a large-scale infection is occurring, and confirmed cooperation in infection control.

Mayor Fukuda revealed that he visited the US military base in Iwakuni and had a meeting with Commander Lewis. After receiving an explanation that the medical staff of the hospital is observing their health, he said, ``I told them about important measures such as preventing the spread of the virus, asked them to wear masks thoroughly, and confirmed that they would continue to cooperate in infection control.'' said.

After the meeting, Mayor Fukuda did not directly answer a question from a reporter about whether the infection had spread from a base official, but said, "The US military should look in the same direction and lead to convergence." The application of priority measures will cause anxiety and inconvenience to citizens, but I would like to ask for your understanding and cooperation."

Tourism may be affected...

In Hiroshima Prefecture, 429 people were confirmed to be infected, and the number of new infections announced in a day was August 21, 2021. Over 381 people, the most ever. Accommodations in Miyajima, where many tourists visit, have been canceling reservations one after another.

Since October 2021, when the state of emergency was lifted at Hotel Kikunoya in Miyajima, the number of guests, mainly families from the prefecture and neighboring prefectures, has increased, and the year-end and New Year holidays have been full. was in a recovery trend. However, since January 6th, we have received a series of cancellations, and by noon on January 7th, about a quarter of the accommodation reservations until the end of January had been canceled.

Hiroshi Matsumoto, managing director of "Hotel Kikunoya", said, "It's very disappointing that customers have finally come back. After the convergence, the government will launch a tourism campaign for as long as possible to promote the industry. I want you to save me," he said.

According to the Miyajima Tourism Association, the number of tourists visiting the streets lined with souvenir shops and restaurants has been decreasing since January 6, and chairman Yasutomi Nakamura said, "The island is bustling and it should return to normal." I thought it would be bad, but it looks like I'll have to put up with it for a while.

Back to Table of Contents

“Omicron suspected 46% December 27-January 2 provisional value” Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary (1/7)

January 7, 2022

Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Isozaki said at a press conference, "In Osaka and Okinawa prefectures, cases unrelated to overseas travel continue to occur, and Delta stocks are being replaced by Omicron stocks. Based on the results of PCR tests for mutant strains nationwide, the percentage of suspected Omicron strains was 46 in the provisional value from December 27 to January 2. %, which is a significant percentage," he said.

In addition, regarding the securing of medical staff, ``In the event of a medical crisis, we have a system in place to dispatch about 3,000 doctors and about 3,000 nurses from about 2,000 medical institutions. I would like to take the initiative to respond to the spread of infection."

On the other hand, Deputy Secretary Isozaki was asked if he was thinking about revising the "vaccine and test package" for balancing infection control and economic and social activities based on the characteristics of the Omicron strain. However, since the properties of the Omicron strain have not necessarily been clarified, experts, local governments, and economic We will also consult with groups, etc.," he said.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “Is there a low possibility that the virus will appear after 10 days of onset?” National Institute of Infectious Diseases (1/6)

January 6, 2022

Regarding the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases examined 21 infected people in Japan, and tentatively said that no infectious virus was detected after 10 days from the onset or diagnosis. summarized the survey results.

Groups such as the National Institute of Infectious Diseases are targeting 21 people in total, 17 mildly ill and 4 asymptomatic people infected with the Omicron strain in Japan, to determine how long an infectious virus will be detected. I checked.

As a result, the virus was not detected after 10 days from the date of onset in ▽ people with mild symptoms, and ▽ even in asymptomatic people, it was not detected after 6 days after being diagnosed.

On the other hand, some people were positive after the second week with the PCR test, which can detect if part of the virus gene remains.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases said that this survey is a provisional report, and that people who have been vaccinated against the Omicron strain and who have mild or no symptoms after 10 days from the onset or diagnosis It is considered unlikely that an infectious virus has emerged.

Regarding the Omicron strain, when hospitalized infected people were discharged, they had to test negative twice in a row. If you have been vaccinated from the day, you will be allowed to leave the hospital if 10 days have passed since the onset or diagnosis, as with the conventional new coronavirus.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain 20 prefectures in principle moved from hospitalization to home treatment (1/6)

January 6, 2022

On January 5, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced a policy to allow patients infected with the Omicron strain, who had been hospitalized in principle, to be recuperated at home if certain conditions were met. It turns out that 20 prefectures up to Okinawa have indicated a policy to switch from hospitalization to home treatment.

In response to the spread of the new coronavirus infection, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expects that the bed occupancy rate will exceed 50% after 3 weeks for those infected with the Omicron strain, who were hospitalized in principle. , In municipalities where the infection is rapidly expanding, if a system such as health observation is in place, it has indicated a policy to allow switching to treatment at home.

Municipalities that switch the response are supposed to report to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in advance, and by 3:00 pm on January 6, 20 prefectures nationwide have indicated a policy to switch.

Specifically, Hokkaido, Miyagi Prefecture, Kanagawa Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture, Fukui Prefecture, Nagano Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture, Osaka Prefecture, Kyoto Prefecture, Shiga Prefecture, Hyogo Prefecture, Tottori Prefecture, Shimane Prefecture, Okayama There are 20 prefectures in total, including prefectures, Ehime, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and Okinawa.

Infection with the Omicron strain is spreading nationwide, and it is expected that the movement to switch will spread in the future.

Back to Table of Contents

Osaka Prefecture “More than 50% of Omicron strain infections are vaccinated twice” (1/6)

January 6, 2022

Osaka Prefecture has revealed that more than 50% of the residents who were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain by early January had been vaccinated twice.

Osaka Prefecture is investigating the ages and vaccination history of residents who have been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain.

Accordingly, from December 14th to January 4th, 2021, 56.6% of the 145 residents who were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain had been vaccinated twice, and 56.6% had been vaccinated once. 2.1% were vaccinated and 40.7% were unvaccinated.

By age group, 67.6% are in their 30s or younger, and 32.4% are in their teens or younger, which is higher than the 4th wave of 12% and the 5th wave of 22.2%.

As for the route of infection, 33.1% of people do not know the route of infection, while 20.7% are school-related, 20% are close contacts, 18.6% are domestic infections, 5.5% are facility-related, and restaurants are It is 2.1%, and the prefecture says that it is necessary to pay attention to school-related and facility-related outbreaks.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron stock What precautions should be taken when recuperating at home? Summary of points (1/6)

January 6, 2022

If the infection of the new coronavirus mutant virus, the Omicron strain, spreads rapidly, there is a risk that more people will be recuperating at home.

Omicron strains are said to have a high proportion of mild cases, but cases of death have been reported overseas, and it is expected that more people will become seriously ill as the number of infected people increases.

The government has established a system that allows for the administration of therapeutic drugs and health monitoring during home care, but it is important not to overlook signs of aggravation and lead to appropriate medical care. increase.

In August 2021, the “volunteer group” made up of medical and public health experts involved in measures against the new coronavirus summarized points to be aware of during home treatment.

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Volunteer Association, said, ``This is a summary of past epidemics, but it is a point to catch signs of aggravation, and it also applies to the Omicron strain.''

Among the points to be aware of, 13 items are listed as "highly urgent symptoms" that can be used as a guideline for calling an ambulance during medical treatment.

First of all, the symptoms to be checked by the patient are: ▽ Lips turning purple ▽ Breathing becomes rough ▽ Breathing suddenly becomes difficult There are 9 items listed: ``I can't breathe unless I sit down,'' ``I'm breathing on my shoulders,'' ``I suddenly started wheezing,'' and ``I feel like my pulse rhythm is disturbed.''

Furthermore, there are four symptoms that family members and cohabitants should be aware of: ▽Facial complexion is obviously bad, ▽Being unusual or strange, ▽Response is weak and absent-minded, and there is no response and drowsiness. is mentioned.

On top of that, if you are worried about changes in your physical condition, we encourage you to consult with your family doctor, the doctor who diagnosed you, the public health center, or the consultation desk of the local government.

Professor Wada said, ``If there are signs of aggravation during recuperation, it is important to immediately get the necessary medical care. It is necessary to clarify who will be responsible for health observation and care as the attending physician, such as the doctor in charge, the point of contact for consultation, and the role of each medical institution."

Back to Table of Contents

What we learned about the Omicron strain “Infection spread in front of us” (1/5)

January 5, 2022

A new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new coronavirus. Community-acquired infections have been confirmed in various places, and infections are spreading at an unprecedented pace in Okinawa. In Western countries, the number of infected people has reached a record high, and the strength of the infectiousness has become clear. There are reports that the risk of severe illness is low, but if the infection spreads rapidly, there is a risk that medical institutions will be heavily burdened. Now that the spread of infection is imminent in Japan, we have summarized what we have learned. (As of January 5, 2022)

Confirmation of community-acquired Omicron strains continues

The first case of community-acquired Omicron strain infection was discovered on December 22, 2021. It was in Osaka prefecture.

Since then, it has been confirmed in Tokyo, Aichi, Okinawa, etc., and as of January 4, there are 18 prefectures where there is a possibility of community-acquired infection.

Community-acquired infection means that ``infection that cannot be traced'' is occurring in the city, and there is a risk that the infection will spread to the area in the future.

In Okinawa Prefecture, the number of infected people is doubling daily, and it is being pointed out that the Omicron strain may be affecting it.

Infection itself is on the rise as more people go out during the year-end and New Year holidays and more people move back home, but with the addition of the influence of Omicron strains, the sixth wave of infection spread. There is concern that they may be connected.

Omicron strain "strongly infectious"

The Omicron strain has been evaluated to be more infectious than the delta strain and other mutant viruses that have been reported so far. .

European and American countries, where Delta strains accounted for almost all of them, have rapidly replaced them in about a month, and Omicron strains have become the majority.

By December 30, 2021, a total of approximately 247,000 people in the UK were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain, and the number of new coronaviruses detected in most parts of England has increased. About 95% is believed to be Omicron stock.

And on January 4th, the number of infected people in a single day exceeded 200,000, a record high.

In France, the number of infected people per day exceeded 270,000, a record high.

In the United States, on January 3, the number of reported new coronavirus infections on the 1st was approximately 1.08 million, surpassing 1 million, the highest ever.

The background is believed to be the expansion of the Omicron strain, and President Biden said, ``The Omicron strain is highly contagious as never seen before, and the number of infected people is expected to continue to increase. It's going to be a tough few weeks," he said.

According to the CDC = Center for Disease Control, the percentage of Omicron strains in the United States was estimated to be about 0.6% in the week ending December 4, 2021, but in the week ending December 25, 2021 77.0%, and 95.4% in the week ending January 1, which seems to have been almost replaced.

On the other hand, the incubation period from infection to onset is around 3 days according to the provisional data of active epidemiological surveys in Japan, and 3.6 days according to the analysis of infected cases at health facilities in South Korea. and has a shorter incubation period than the delta strain.

Is it mild even if infected?

There have been reports one after another that Omicron strains have a low rate of becoming severe even if infected.

WHO = The head of the World Health Organization said on January 4 that although the Omicron strain tends to cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as the nose and throat, it reaches the lungs and becomes more severe than other mutant viruses. indicated that the risk of doing so was low.

On the other hand, he is cautious, saying, 'Further research is needed to prove it.'

In the United Kingdom, by December 30, 2021, more than 212,000 people were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in England, 981 were hospitalized, and 75 died.

British health officials say the risk of hospitalization for Omicron strain is one-third that of Delta strain.

Those 14 days or more after completing their second dose of the vaccine were 65% less likely to be hospitalized than those who had not been vaccinated, and 14 days or more after receiving their third booster dose. was 81% lower in people with

On the other hand, British health authorities say that the Omicron strain spreads quickly and has the property of escaping immunity, so even if the risk of becoming severe is low, the burden on medical institutions will not necessarily be reduced. I emphasize that it doesn't matter.

Also, it takes a certain amount of time for the number of people who become seriously ill or die to increase after the number of infected people increases.

In a weekly report issued on December 28, 2021, the WHO said, ``Early data from the UK, South Africa and Denmark suggest that Omicron strains have a lower risk of hospitalization than Delta strains. "We need more data on the severity of illness, such as oxygen use, ventilator use, and death."

Vaccine Effect

It has been reported that even vaccinated people can be infected with the Omicron strain.

According to data presented by the UK health authorities, the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines were 65-70% effective in preventing the onset of disease 2 to 4 weeks after two doses against the Omicron strain. However, it dropped to about 10% after 20 weeks.

On the other hand, when people who received two doses of Pfizer's vaccine received a third dose of Pfizer or Moderna, the protection against onset increased to 65% to 75% after 2 to 4 weeks.

However, it dropped to 55-70% after 5 to 9 weeks, and to 40-50% after 10 weeks.

On the other hand, the effect of reducing the risk of becoming severe and hospitalization is high.

An analysis of people who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines showed 72 percent protection against hospitalization 2 to 24 weeks after the second dose and 52 percent after 25 weeks. %, after the third booster vaccination, it was 88% after 2 weeks.

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on what we know so far, such as infectivity and pathogenicity, based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and public institutions in each country I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

Infectivity

It was pointed out that the Omicron strain may have increased infectivity, judging from the number of mutations in the spike protein, but in fact it is unprecedented in each country. page is expanding.

Virulence

▽ "Alpha strain" → Possibility of high risk of hospitalization, aggravation, and death

▽ "Beta stock" → risk of hospitalization, possibility of high mortality at hospitalization

▽ "Gamma strain" → Possibility of high risk of hospitalization and aggravation

▽ "Delta strain" → Possibility of high risk of hospitalization

▽ "Omicron strain" → Is the risk of hospitalization low?

There are reports from various countries that the risk of becoming severe with the Omicron strain is lower than with the Delta strain.

However, according to WHO, there is a certain amount of time between being infected and becoming severe, and people who have been vaccinated or who have been infected before are infected with the Omicron strain, resulting in mild symptoms. It shows the idea that it is necessary to look carefully, as there is a possibility that it may be.

Risk of re-infection

▽ "Alpha strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is maintained, is the risk of re-infection the same as the conventional strain?

▽ "Beta strain" → The function of antibodies that suppress viruses is reduced, the function of cells that attack viruses is maintained

▽ "Gamma strain" → The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced

▽ "Delta strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is reduced

▽ "Omicron strain" → Risk of reinfection rises

The WHO says that there are mutations that make it easier to reinfect even those who are immune from vaccines or past infections.

England's Imperial College London reports that the risk of reinfection with the Omicron strain is 5.41 times higher than with the Delta strain.

Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

▽ "Alpha strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Beta strain" → No change in prevention of onset and prevention of aggravation

▽ "Gamma strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Delta strain" → No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation (There is also a report that prevention of infection and onset is reduced)

▽ "Omicron strain" → There is a report that the effect of preventing the onset and prevention of aggravation is reduced, and there is also a report that the third vaccination increases the effect of preventing onset and aggravation.

There have been reports of cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who have completed vaccination.

There is data showing that although the effect of preventing the onset of the disease decreases with time after vaccination, the effect of preventing aggravation is maintained to a certain extent.

In addition, there are reports that the third booster vaccination is effective in preventing the onset and severity of the disease.

Effects of therapeutic agents

Antibody cocktail therapy, which is administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation, is said to be less effective.

On December 16, 2021, the American pharmaceutical company `` Regeneron '' that developed it issued a statement that `` the effect will be reduced for Omicron stocks ''.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Infection route

The new coronavirus infection route is mainly small droplets floating in a closed room called "micro-droplets". Contact infection by touching etc. has also been reported.

There is a possibility that the Omicron strain may be more infectious, but it is believed to be the same route of infection.

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda "Possibility of replacement in Japan in February"

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on measures against the new coronavirus, said, "Even in various places, Omicron Community infections of the strain are occurring, and there is a possibility that all viruses in Japan will be replaced by the Omicron strain by February.It has been pointed out that fewer people with the Omicron strain become severely ill than the Delta strain, but they are less contagious. There are reports that the number is three to four times higher.If the number of infected people explodes, a certain percentage of people will be hospitalized or become seriously ill, so we must be aware that this will lead to a strain on medical care. For the Omicron strain, it's still all about thorough basic infection control.It's important to avoid close contact, use masks appropriately, and keep ventilation even in winter. We should also pay attention to the spread of infection in public places, and avoid eating out with a large number of people or for a long time."

Countermeasures remain unchanged

Currently, research on the infectivity and pathogenicity of the Omicron strain is underway around the world, and the WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases have updated the information. I'm planning to do it.

The measures we can take are the same as before.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing a mask, disinfecting and washing hands, and avoiding ventilation and crowding, especially when talking.

Back to Table of Contents

About 70% of those infected with the Omicron strain in Tokyo have been vaccinated twice (1/5)

January 5, 2022

Of the 55 people who were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain by January 4 in Tokyo, about 70% had been vaccinated more than once. I want you to be vigilant and take thorough countermeasures."

As of January 4th, a total of 55 people in Tokyo have been confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus mutation virus "Omicron strain".

When the city investigated the vaccination status of these 55 people, it was found that 37 people, or 67%, had completed two vaccinations.

In addition, there was one person who was inoculated three times.

On the other hand, 15 people had never been vaccinated, and 2 people had been vaccinated once.

The city said, ``It has become clear that there is a risk of being infected with the Omicron strain even if you have been vaccinated. I am calling.

Back to Table of Contents

WHO chief Omicron strain “Many cases of inflammation confined to the nose and throat” (1/5)

January 5, 2022

WHO = The head of the World Health Organization said that the symptoms of the mutated virus of the new coronavirus, the Omicron strain, are likely to cause inflammation of the nose and throat, the so-called upper respiratory tract, but compared to other mutated viruses, it does not reach the lungs. He indicated that the risk of becoming seriously ill was low.

Mahmoud, who is in charge of analyzing the new coronavirus at the WHO, said at a press conference on January 4 about the symptoms of the Omicron strain, "Unlike several other mutant viruses that reach the lungs and cause severe pneumonia, the upper respiratory tract There are increasing research results that it is easy to cause inflammation, ”he said, and expressed the view that the inflammation is often limited to the nose and throat, and the risk of becoming severe is low.

Mahmood said, ``It could be very good news,'' but cautioned that ``further research is needed to prove it.''

WHO points out that the Omicron strain spreads at a remarkably fast speed, so people who have been vaccinated or who have recovered from the new coronavirus in the past may be infected again. I am calling for caution.

Back to Table of Contents

Year-end and New Year hospitalizations of Omicron strain infected patients, most of whom are in their 50s or younger with mild symptoms (1/4)

January 4, 2022

During the year-end and New Year holidays, medical institutions in Chiba Prefecture that accept patients with the new coronavirus were hospitalized one after another with the Omicron strain.

On January 4, more than 150 people were confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus in Tokyo, and cases of suspected community-acquired infections of Omicron strains have been reported one after another nationwide.

At the International University of Health and Welfare Narita Hospital, which mainly deals with infected people confirmed by quarantine at Narita Airport, there were about 15 hospitalized patients until around mid-December, but from late December, 6 people were hospitalized every day. It means that we have come to accept seven people from people.

As of January 3, the number of hospitalized patients has increased to 33, of which 31 are hospitalized patients with Omicron strain, including those suspected.

Most of them are under the age of 50, and even if they have symptoms, they are all mild, such as fever and cough.

Also, almost everyone had two vaccinations.

Kenji Tsushima, deputy director of the International University of Health and Welfare Narita Hospital, said, "At the moment, the patients are all mildly ill, but there are many young people. If the infection spreads to the elderly in the future, there will be severe cases. There is also a risk, so we need to be vigilant and continue to be vigilant until the nature of the Omicron strain is fully understood."

On top of that, ``The number of people who have returned from overseas to spend the year-end and New Year holidays has increased, and the number of hospitalizations has increased rapidly, but the number of patients is expected to increase in the future. It is difficult to hospitalize them, so it is important to select who should be hospitalized and who should not be hospitalized.I would like the national and local governments to show guidelines such as how to select high-risk people."

Back to Table of Contents

The number of infected people in Tokyo increased during the year-end and New Year holidays, and the Omicron strain community infection also occurred (2022/1/4)

January 4, 2022

In Tokyo, the number of confirmed new coronavirus infections increased during the year-end and New Year holidays, and the speed of the increase has increased, with over 100 people on January 3rd. In addition, there are an increasing number of cases that are considered to be community-acquired infections of the Omicron strain, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is repeatedly calling for thorough basic measures.

On December 28, when the work was finished, Governor Koike of Tokyo said about this year-end and New Year holidays, ``We must be concerned that the movement of people will lead to an explosion of infections in a wide area and at an accelerated rate. No," he said, showing a strong sense of crisis.

How was the infection situation in Tokyo during the year-end and New Year holidays?

Let's take a look at the transition from December 29th to January 3rd.

Increased speed of increase

▽On December 29, 76 people were confirmed to be infected. For the 73rd consecutive day, the number of confirmed infections fell below 50 per day.

▽ 64 people on the 30th, ▽ 78 people on New Year's Eve on the 31st, the most in last month and December. Each had more than 50 people, nearly double the number on the same day of the week last week.

The number increased further at the beginning of the year, with 79 on January 1, 84 on January 2, and 103 on January 3, surpassing 100 since October 8, 2021. I was.

On January 3, the number was nearly three times higher than on Monday a week ago, and the person in charge of the city said, "The speed of increase is increasing during the year-end and New Year holidays, and the sense of crisis is increasing."

Infection route

Infection route was conspicuous in the home.

Of the 484 people who were confirmed to be infected during the six days of the year-end and New Year holidays until January 3, 175, or 36.2%, knew the route of infection.

Of these, 101 people are the most at home, accounting for 57.7%.

This is followed by ▽ 12.0% in the workplace, ▽ 9.1% in dinners, and ▽ 7.4% in facilities.

Confirmation of Omicron strains one after another

The number of confirmed infections with the novel coronavirus mutant virus, the Omicron strain, is increasing.

On December 16th, the first infection with the Omicron strain was confirmed in Tokyo.

After that, there were 13 people in about two weeks until December 28, but during the year-end and New Year holidays, ▽ 9 people were found to be infected on December 30, and ▽ 25 people were found to be infected on January 3.

In addition, among these, the number of people who did not know the route of infection and were considered to be community-acquired was ▽ until December 28, but ▽ on December 30 and January 3 during the year-end and New Year holidays. A total of 12 people, and it increased at once.

The person in charge of the metropolitan government said, "Since Christmas is over, the number of people who are suspected of Omicron stocks has increased. There is a possibility that Omicron stocks are expanding rapidly during the year-end and New Year holidays." .

Medical care system

Medical care system.

The occupancy rate of hospital beds in Tokyo, which can secure up to 6919 beds, is 3.5% as of January 3.

In the third wave, January 2021, when the beds were tight, the usage rate remained at the 80% level, although the calculation method was different from now.

The number of severely ill patients exceeded 100 at the beginning of 2021, but this year there is only one as of January 3.

The city's experts are now analyzing that it is possible to stably coexist with normal medical care, but depending on the spread of Omicron strain infection, there is a risk that the hospital bed will be tight. is.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain may be weak to cause symptoms “If infection spreads, it may become severe” (2021/12/30)

December 30, 2021

As a result of experiments on animals by groups such as the University of Tokyo regarding the severity of symptoms of the new coronavirus mutant virus, the Omicron strain, it was announced that the ability to cause symptoms may be weaker than previous viruses. Did.

The results of this experiment were published on the Internet by a group led by Associate Professor Kei Sato of the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo, and Professor Takasuke Fukuhara of the Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University.

In the group, when cultured cells were infected with the Omicron strain, the Delta strain, and the conventional new coronavirus, the infected cells were broken into clumps with the Delta strain and the conventional virus, but with the Omicron strain, It means that such lumps could not be formed.

In addition, when hamsters were infected with each virus, weight loss, exacerbation of pneumonia, and bleeding in the lungs were observed with the Delta strain and the conventional virus, but there was a large change in body weight with the Omicron strain. No, it means that he did not get worse even if he got pneumonia.

In the group, it is possible that the ability of the Omicron strain to cause symptoms is weaker than that of the Delta strain, after citing the results of experiments on animals.

Expert "It's not okay to let go of caution"

Professor Fukuhara said, "Although it was an experiment with hamsters, we were able to find out the symptoms of the Omicron strain. Rather, it is thought that if the infection spreads, some people will become seriously ill, so it is not a good idea to relax their vigilance."

Back to Table of Contents

Preparing for the end of the year (12/28)

December 28, 2021

The mutated virus of the new coronavirus, Omicron strain, which has been confirmed to be infected in 18 prefectures so far. Preparations are being made in various places for the year-end and New Year holidays, when the movement of people is active and the infection is most likely to spread in a year.

"Community infection" in 7 prefectures in total

On December 28th, 1 new person in Iwate Prefecture for the first time in Tohoku, 1 person in Kanagawa Prefecture, 1 person in Chiba Prefecture, and Aichi Prefecture. 2 people in Osaka Prefecture, 4 people in Kyoto Prefecture, and 2 people in Okinawa Prefecture.

Of these, 2 people in Aichi Prefecture, 3 people in Kyoto Prefecture, and 1 person in Okinawa Prefecture are said to have a high possibility of community-acquired infection. It became a prefecture. According to Osaka Prefecture, three of the four people were elderly facility users, and it was the first time in the prefecture that a cluster of Omicron strains had occurred.

Tokyo Governor Koike ``New Year's holiday in a state of tension''

Governor Koike of Tokyo said, ``We will face the year-end and New Year holidays in a nervous state after confirming community infection of the Omicron strain. We must be concerned that the movement of people during the year-end and New Year holidays will lead to an exploding spread of infections across the board and at an accelerated rate," he said, expressing a strong sense of crisis.

On top of that, ``We are proactively working to strengthen the medical care provision system with a view to the spread of community-acquired infections. We will take seamless measures with a sense of crisis, such as hospitalization of contacts and adjustment of admission."

Governor Yoshimura of Osaka "Thorough basic measures"

A survey up to December 28 confirmed that 23 people were infected with the Omicron strain in Osaka Prefecture, and it seems to be a case of community-acquired infection. are also one after another.

Governor Yoshimura told reporters, "I would like to ask you to take basic measures on the premise that there is community infection of the highly contagious Omicron strain." He also called for thorough measures such as washing hands, wearing masks, and dining with a small number of people. On top of that, we called on people with even the slightest symptoms to see a doctor immediately, and those with no symptoms who were worried to actively undergo free tests at testing sites set up throughout the prefecture.

Omicron Strain “Is there a certain scale of infection in the region?” In various places...

This Omicron strain, an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare may have a certain scale of infection in the region. It was analyzed that the situation should be assumed to spread rapidly in the future. As the year-end and New Year holidays are approaching under these circumstances, preparations are being made at hospitals and other facilities around the country.

1. Fever outpatient also during the year-end and New Year holidays

During the year-end and New Year holidays from December 29th to January 3, 2022, the fever outpatient clinic will conduct tests every day. At Sumida Central Hospital, staff were vaccinated for the third time, and the doctors and nurses who entered shifts were coordinated.

For the year-end and New Year holidays before the spread of the new corona, general medical examinations were closed and only emergency patients were treated, but for the second year in a row, the fever outpatient clinic was opened, and about twice as many doctors and nurses as usual. This means that the

In the hospital, staff put up posters to inform them of the response time for fever outpatients during the year-end and New Year holidays, and checked how to divide the aisles between fever patients and other patients.

Kuniaki Kojima, director of Sumida Central Hospital, said, "If the Omicron strain is highly contagious, but the symptoms are relatively mild, it is very disadvantageous for us, and we are worried that the infection will spread if it is a cold. In order to prevent the spread of infection, I would like you to see a doctor as soon as you feel any change in your physical condition."

2. Immediate response to the third vaccination

Mishuku Hospital in Meguro Ward, Tokyo, which has accepted patients with moderate illness of the new corona, is preparing for the spread of Omicron strain infection. We are rushing to inoculate the third vaccination for doctors, nurses, office workers, etc. December 28th was the last vaccination day of the year at the hospital, and 60 people were vaccinated after the doctor's interview.

This means that 420 people, nearly 90% of the hospital's medical workers, have received the third vaccination, and the interval between the second and the second time has been shortened by about a month.

A female physiotherapist in her twenties who was vaccinated on December 28 said, "I can get the vaccine and can deal with it with confidence from the beginning of the year."

Director Toshio Kondo said, "Since the 6th wave due to the Omicron strain is approaching, we have proceeded with the schedule to complete the vaccination as much as possible by the end of the year. We would like to fulfill our responsibilities with a thorough system."

3. Inventory Consolidation of Antigen Test Kits

On the other hand, we expect that demand for antigen test kits that can be tested for the new coronavirus at home will increase. , At pharmacies in Tokyo, preparations are underway, such as consolidating inventories at stores that will be open until New Year's Eve.

From September 2021, medical antigen test kits will be allowed to be sold at pharmacies as a special case, and it is assumed that they will be used by themselves, such as at home, and if a positive result is obtained, they will consult a medical institution. I'm here.

A pharmacy in Sumida Ward, Tokyo ordered a test kit from a store in an area where the infection situation is relatively calm. There were no buyers in November, but since the beginning of December, the number of people who are buying them has gradually increased, so it means that the inventory is concentrated at stores in the Tokyo metropolitan area that are open until New Year's Eve.

Saori Takeda, a pharmacist, said, "I feel the demand is increasing partly due to the influence of the Omicron strain. Antigen test kits are not suitable for asymptomatic people and when they are not feeling well, the amount of virus increases. Medical institutions may be closed during the year-end and New Year holidays, so it would be nice if you could use it for self-checking, but you already have symptoms such as a fever. If you are, please visit a medical institution instead of visiting a pharmacy to buy a test kit."

The number of new infections is “extremely low, but it is increasing mainly in urban areas”

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting said that the number of new infections is still Although the number of infected people continues to be at a very low level, there is an increasing trend in the number of infected people, mainly in urban areas. I thought I could.

The Omicron strain “We should assume a rapid spread of infection in the future”

The Omicron strain has been confirmed to be infected in multiple regions in Japan, and there are cases where the route of infection is unknown. In Japan, there is a possibility that a certain scale of infection has occurred in the region, and he has shown the recognition that the situation should be assumed to spread rapidly in the future.

Regarding the symptoms when infected with the Omicron strain, all the infected people who have been followed up in Japan so far have mild or no symptoms, and overseas studies have shown that it may be less severe than the Delta strain. However, he pointed out that if the number of infected people rapidly increases in the future, the number of people who need to be hospitalized will also increase rapidly, and it is necessary to pay attention to the possibility that the medical care system will be overwhelmed.

In addition, regarding future measures, in addition to focusing on border control of the Omicron strain, we will continue testing such as genome analysis to check whether it is the Omicron strain for all infected people in Japan. He said that detection and rapid investigation of infection routes are necessary.

New Year's holiday "Refrain from activities with high risk of infection, work in small groups"

Towards the year-end and New Year holidays, the number of people who do not usually get along with each other and the movement of people due to returning to their hometowns increases, and the infection is rapidly increasing. He said that it is necessary to refrain from activities with a high risk of infection and to limit activities to as few people as possible, as there is a risk of spreading.

Back to Table of Contents

Response to Omicron Strain Infected Patients Hospitalization Judgment Based on Severity Expert Proposal (12/28)

December 28, 2021

Currently, all people infected with the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus are hospitalized, and those who have had close contact with them are also required to observe their health at hotels, etc. Retaining staff is becoming an issue. As with conventional viruses, experts who have been working on measures have decided whether or not to be hospitalized according to the severity of the infected person. We have also put together a proposal for flexible response according to the region.

The proposal was compiled by members of the expert meeting who have been working on corona countermeasures and presented it to the government.

In this, all people infected with the Omicron strain should be hospitalized, as with conventional viruses. Also, regarding the criteria for discharge, we are proposing to confirm negative PCR tests twice, but to be able to leave the hospital even if 10 days have passed since the onset of symptoms.

In addition, it is necessary to secure an efficient testing system, such as enabling health observation at home of people who have been in close contact with people infected with the Omicron strain, and utilizing antigen qualitative tests and PCR tests by mail. I am proposing.

In the proposal, there is a strong concern that the infection may spread in a short period of time and the number of infected people may increase rapidly. Before the difficult year-end and New Year period, the country is asking local governments to communicate their policies.

Back to Table of Contents

Passengers on the same plane as those infected with Omicron strain Close contact is "front and back 2 rows" (12/27)

December 27, 2021

Regarding the handling of all passengers who were on the same plane as the infected person as close contacts as a border countermeasure for the Omicron strain, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto told reporters that after December 28, other viruses As with , he indicated that only passengers in the same row and two rows before and after the infected person would be considered close contacts.

In this, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto commented on the border control measures for Omicron strains, saying, ``The rate of passengers on an airplane testing positive is extremely low, and it is almost the same level as the rate of infection found after airport quarantine. was obtained,” he pointed out.

On top of that, we changed the treatment of all passengers who were on the same plane as the infected person as close contacts, and after December 28th, like other viruses, we will put the infected person in the same row and the two rows before and after. He indicated a policy of treating only the passengers who were sitting as close contacts.

Furthermore, Minister Goto omits genome analysis, etc., because about 80% of people infected with the Omicron strain are quarantined, and if infection is found, it is treated as an infected person with the Omicron strain. He also announced that antigen test kits will be distributed to all immigrants and that they will be tested on the third day.

And, "During the year-end and New Year holidays, there will be more opportunities to come into contact with people you don't usually meet, so I would like to ask you to thoroughly implement basic infection prevention measures. Regarding homecomings and trips, we will respond carefully based on the trend of Omicron stocks. I would like to have it," he called out.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain Vaccine effect significantly reduced even for domestic vaccinated Dai Kitasato (12/27)

December 27, 2021

A group at Kitasato University conducted an experiment using cultured cells to see how effective the antibodies of people who had been vaccinated in Japan against the new coronavirus mutated virus "Omicron strain", and found that the vaccine compared to the delta strain. was found to be significantly less effective.

For the Omicron strain, it has been pointed out that the effectiveness of the vaccine may be significantly reduced in overseas reports.

About this, a group led by Professor Kazuhiko Katayama of Kitasato University used the actual Omicron strain to determine how much antibody was contained in the blood of six people who had received two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine in Japan. We conducted an experiment using cultured cells to see if it was effective.

As a result, after 3 months of receiving two doses of Pfizer's vaccine, neutralizing antibodies to the Omicron strain decreased by an average of 72% compared to the Delta strain.

In addition, with the Moderna vaccine, the neutralizing antibody level against the Omicron strain in people three months after vaccination was reduced by 82% on average compared to the Delta strain.

Professor Katayama said, "It's just an experiment, so I don't think the effect of the vaccine is actually lost, but it was confirmed that the effect against the Omicron strain was reduced even in Japan. For the Omicron strain, Even those who have been vaccinated need to thoroughly implement basic infection control measures again."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Strain [Summary of December 24] 10 confirmed in Japan, 16 in airport quarantine (12/24)

December 24, 2021

A total of 10 people were confirmed to be infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Yamaguchi prefectures.

In addition, it was newly confirmed that 16 people who entered Japan from December 18th to December 21st were infected with the new coronavirus mutated virus "Omicron strain".

This is a summary of the nationwide situation on December 24th.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, 16 men and women in their teens to 50s who entered the country from Narita Airport and Kansai Airport between December 18th and December 21st were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain. .

It means that he has stayed in the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, Kenya, etc., and has tested positive for the new coronavirus in the airport quarantine and in the waiting accommodation.

With this, a total of 226 people have been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Japan.

The first ``community infection'' in Tokyo confirmed 1 person In addition, 3 people who returned from overseas

In Tokyo, there is no history of overseas travel and the route of infection is unknown 1 A person has been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain, and the city is said to be the first community-acquired infection in Tokyo. The metropolitan government said that the patient did not fall under close contact because the doctor had taken measures to prevent infection during the examination. I am asking you to get tested.

The number of people who entered Japan on the same plane as those who were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain and who were considered close contacts exceeded 2,000 in Tokyo. Of these, about one-third are in accommodation facilities, and the metropolitan government is calling on people to stay in accommodation facilities, saying that if they are infected, they may spread the virus if they stay at home without realizing it. I'm here.

Three new cases in Kyoto Prefecture, all of which are community-acquired

A total of 3 people, 2 women in their 30s and 1 man in their 50s, were confirmed to be infected. is. Kyoto Prefecture believes that the possibility of so-called community-acquired infection is high because neither of them has traveled overseas and the route of infection is unknown at this time. In addition, two of the three women are in the same workplace.

Osaka Prefecture Confirms Two New Infections

Governor Yoshimura of Osaka Prefecture told reporters that two people living in the prefecture were newly infected, one on December 22. Of the three confirmed cases in the family, the other is a returnee from abroad.

"Free inspection" begins in Osaka

Osaka Prefecture has announced that the new coronavirus mutated virus "Omicron strain" may be spreading in the community. From December 24th, we started a free inspection for citizens who feel uneasy.

Free tests are carried out at more than 100 locations, including pharmacies and private testing institutions in Osaka Prefecture, and are intended for residents who have no symptoms but are worried about infection. Of these, pharmacies in Nishi-ku, Osaka received about 100 inquiries by the evening of December 24, and about 30 people were tested.

The PCR test, which gives results in a few days, and the simple antigen test, which can be obtained in about 20 minutes, are being conducted. That's it.

One confirmed infection in Yamaguchi Prefecture, the first in the Chugoku region

In Yamaguchi Prefecture, a Japanese man in his 30s who works at the U.S. military base in Iwakuni has a new mutated virus of the new corona. announced that it was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain. This is the first confirmation of Omicron strain infection in the Chugoku region.

Prime Minister Kishida “Make it possible to receive free tests in Tokyo”

In response to the confirmation of community-acquired infections of the Omicron strain in Tokyo following Osaka and Kyoto, Prime Minister Kishida spoke to reporters. ``We will implement containment measures centered on thorough early detection of Omicron strains and requesting those who have had close contact to wait at accommodation facilities,'' he said. On top of that, he expressed his intention to allow people who are worried about infection and wish to be tested for free in Tokyo.

Minister of Countermeasures against New Corona Yamagiwa “If infection spreads, action restrictions should be strengthened”

Regarding a series of cases that are thought to be community-acquired infections of the Omicron strain, Yamagiwa, the minister in charge of new corona countermeasures, is currently He said that he has no intention of restricting movement in the future, but he acknowledged that if the infection spreads in the future, it will be necessary to consider strengthening movement restrictions.

Rising number of people in close contact with the Omicron strain

As infections with the Omicron strain continue to spread, mainly among people entering the country from overseas, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the same flight as the person who was found to be infected As of midnight on December 23, a total of 7,819 people were in close contact nationwide, more than double the number on December 20.

People in close contact with the Omicron strain

For those in close contact with the "Omicron strain", the government has requested that they wait for 14 days at accommodation facilities prepared by prefectures. Some of the people who were targeted said that although they could understand the situation, the mental burden was heavy.

Among them, a man in his 30s in Tokyo returned from Kenya on December 14th.

At that time, Kenya was not a country where it was necessary to wait at a facility after returning home, so at first I was waiting at home, but the public health center informed me that a passenger on the same plane was infected with the Omicron strain. I received it and moved to the hotel on December 19th.

The man said about how he felt when he received the call, "I was at home and checked my whereabouts and health status using the app, and there were no problems with the tests, but I felt like I was going to be at the facility tomorrow. I was told that I would be asked to go to the hospital, and there was no explanation as to what I should bring to prepare or what it would be like. was

It means that the man spends his time working online in the hotel.

Twice a day, we also measure our body temperature and oxygen saturation and enter them into the provided smartphone, and we receive phone calls from nurses to check if there is any abnormality in our physical condition, and PCR tests are performed every few days. It means that you are receiving it.

Bento is served for meals, and although you can't choose the type, you can feel the ingenuity of making it a menu that you won't get tired of.

About life at the hotel, the man said, "When I go out of the room to pick up a lunch box, if someone is handing it out, I'm told not to go out yet. It's pretty hard mentally to be in an environment like that.There are parts where I'm emotionally unconvinced that it's too much to be isolated all the time when I'm not feeling well, but it's okay. I think I have no choice but to follow what I've been told and live my life."

On the other hand, the man said, ``I heard later that it was possible to stay at home.

Expert "Don't go home if you are unwell, get tested even if you go home"

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on new coronavirus countermeasures, said that Omicron stock About "Right now, community infections are still visible as points, but if you're not careful, the points will become lines and spread as planes. We are firmly aware of the situation that Omicron stocks are spreading this year-end and New Year holidays. There have been reports from countries such as the United Kingdom that the virulence of the disease may be slightly declining, but considering its extremely high infectivity, it is important that each and every one of us take thorough infection control measures. "When the number of people suddenly increases, a certain percentage of people will become seriously ill. Since the number of people receiving treatment at home will also increase, it is important to establish a system to accept them and quickly hospitalize them if they become severe."

Furthermore, regarding returning home during the year-end and New Year holidays, "It is important not to return home if you are unwell. Even if you are vaccinated, there is a possibility of a breakthrough infection, so when you return home, a simple antigen test that is certified will be carried out. It is also important to repeatedly confirm negative results, such as once every three days."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain 4 people confirmed to be infected in Tokyo 1 person is "the first community infection in Tokyo" (12/24)

December 24, 2021

In Tokyo, it was confirmed that one doctor who had no history of traveling abroad and whose route of infection was unknown was infected with the Omicron strain, and the city said it would be the first community-acquired infection in Tokyo. I'm here. The metropolitan government said that the patient did not fall under close contact because the doctor had taken measures to prevent infection during the examination, but considering the infectivity of the Omicron strain, the patient who consulted with an employee of the clinic where he works are being called upon to be tested.

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, on December 24th, it was confirmed that a male doctor in his 50s who works at a clinic in Tokyo was infected with the mutated virus Omicron strain of the new corona.

This doctor has no travel history abroad and the route of infection is unknown.

In addition, it means that he is not a close contact of a person who has traveled abroad.

This is the first time that a person infected with the Omicron strain, who has no history of overseas travel and whose infection route is unknown, has been confirmed in Tokyo.

Governor Koike said at a press conference, "It will be a so-called community infection."

According to the capital, the doctor had a fever on December 16th, so he was tested the next day and was found to be positive and was admitted to a medical institution as it was.

Currently, there are no symptoms.

Also, according to the city, there are 5 people who have been in close contact with this doctor's work place and his family, and the test results are all negative so far.

In addition, the doctor took measures to prevent infection, such as wearing a face guard in addition to the mask, so the patient is not a close contact.

However, considering the infectiousness of the Omicron strain, the city called on about 100 people, including about 20 employees of the clinic where they work and about 80 patients who have been examined, to be tested. I'm here.

In addition, according to the city, three other people were newly confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain.

All three of these people returned from overseas, and two of them were close contacts who were on the same plane as those who had already been confirmed to be infected.

Governor Koike said at a press conference, "We must once again recognize the importance of strengthening the inspection system and leading to early medical treatment and isolation. If you have symptoms such as a cough or fever, please proactively seek medical attention. I want to," he said.

And, "I would like you to thoroughly implement the basics of countermeasures again. I would like to share the awareness that everyone should work together with the determination that 'this kind of year-end and New Year holidays will be the last time'." We have repeatedly called for thorough basic measures such as ventilation to prevent the spread of infection.

Back to Table of Contents

“If Omicron strain infection spreads, action restrictions should be strengthened” New Corona Countermeasures Minister (12/24)

December 24, 2021

Regarding the number of cases that are thought to be community-acquired infections of the Omicron strain, Minister of State for Novel Coronavirus Countermeasures Yamagiwa said that there is no plan to restrict movement at this stage, but if the infection spreads in the future, He showed the recognition that it is necessary to consider strengthening movement restrictions.

Regarding the new mutated virus of the new corona, the Omicron strain, there are a series of cases that are considered to be community-acquired infections, such as confirmed cases in Osaka and Kyoto on December 23rd.

In connection with this, Yamagiwa, the minister in charge of new corona countermeasures, said at a press conference, "Since community-acquired infections have been confirmed in Osaka and Kyoto, unfortunately, there is a good chance that the Omicron strain will spread from now on. Each and every one of us. What can be done is to not neglect basic infection control measures."

On top of that, ``We are not thinking about restricting behavior at this stage, but if the infection of the Omicron strain spreads over a wide area, the government will of course have to respond. While fulfilling accountability, it is necessary to respond flexibly, including strengthening restrictions on behavior."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron response in the metropolitan area 1 city and 3 prefectures Asking the country to make a judgment according to the infection status (12/23)

December 23, 2021

In the Tokyo metropolitan area, the three prefectures of the Tokyo metropolitan area have decided to isolate patients infected with the Omicron strain when they are hospitalized or discharged from the hospital. He requested that decisions be made according to the infection status, as it may lead to a tightness in the population.

On December 23, the governors of Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa held an online meeting to discuss their response to Omicron stocks.

So far, the government has decided that ▽ hospitalization of infected people with Omicron strain should be isolated in a private room in principle, and ▽ discharge should be based on two negative confirmations after symptoms have recovered. It shows the way of thinking.

At the meeting, the government should make judgments according to the infection situation and clarify the way of thinking when the infection spreads, saying that such measures may lead to a tightness of hospital beds if the infection spreads. agreed.

In addition, regarding the fact that the government is requesting close contacts to enter accommodation facilities, he requested that necessary measures be taken so that public health centers are not overburdened.

In addition, at the meeting, a joint message was issued to citizens of Tokyo and the prefecture, and in order to suppress the spread of infection during the year-end and New Year holidays, ▽ avoiding crowded times and places when going out, and ▽ following the rules to prevent infection. We called for more thorough basic measures, such as using restaurants.

First Confirmation of Omicron Strain in Chiba Prefecture A Close Contact Person Arriving at Narita

Governor Kumagai of Chiba Prefecture said in a video conference that a person infected with the new corona mutation virus "Omicron strain" arrived at Narita Airport. It was revealed that it was confirmed for the first time in the prefecture from among the close contacts.

The first confirmed infection with the Omicron strain in Chiba Prefecture was a woman in her 30s living outside the prefecture.

This woman arrived at Narita Airport from Tunisia in Africa on December 15th, and there was a positive person who was suspected of being infected with the Omicron strain on the same plane. I entered an accommodation facility and had a health observation.

On December 18th, he was admitted to a medical institution in the prefecture due to a sore throat and headache, and as a result of genome analysis, he was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain on December 23rd.

The woman currently has symptoms such as fever, but it is mild.

Since she entered the accommodation facility after voluntary isolation at the hotel after entering Japan, Chiba Prefecture believes that the infection from this woman will not spread, and since the route of infection has been identified, the city It is considered that it is not an intermediate infection.

Governor Kumagai said, ``In Japan, community-acquired infections have been confirmed, and the situation is unpredictable. I will go," he commented.

Governor Ono of Saitama Prefecture “Now is the time to prepare when the infection has calmed down”

Governor Ohno of Saitama Prefecture said in a video conference, “In the prefecture, the number of new infections has been roughly 1 since late October. However, we recognize that community-acquired infections are unavoidable, such as confirmed cases of Omicron strain infection in the prefecture the day before. We should go on,” he said.

After that, Governor Ohno, who responded to the reporters' interview, said, ``There are many people who have been in close contact with Omicron stock, and they are currently staying in accommodation facilities, but if the number increases further, it will be difficult. In addition, it is said by the government that people infected with the Omicron strain should be managed in private rooms in principle, but the number of medical institutions that can handle them is limited and there is a possibility that medical care will be tight, so we will show solid standards. I want you," he said.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “community infection” Even in Kyoto... How will you spend the year-end and New Year holidays? (12/23)

December 23, 2021

Infected people who are believed to have been infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona were confirmed in Osaka Prefecture on December 22nd and also in Kyoto Prefecture on December 23rd. A woman in her 20s living in Kyoto Prefecture, who has no history of traveling abroad and does not know the route of infection.

Regarding this situation, Chairman Omi of the Government Subcommittee pointed out that the infection could spread rapidly once the community infection began, and announced "points to prevent the spread of infection". We will take a closer look at how to spend the year-end and New Year holidays, the period when infections are most likely to spread in a year.

■ Female in her 20s in Kyoto "community infection" Vaccine completed

A woman in her 20s living in Kyoto Prefecture was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain, and had symptoms of fever and cough. After a detailed investigation, it was found that he was infected with the Omicron strain.

Kyoto Prefecture says that so-called community-acquired infection has been confirmed because there is no history of overseas travel and the route of infection is unknown.

The woman is currently hospitalized in a medical institution because she has been vaccinated twice, and has symptoms of coughing, but it is mild.

In addition, two of the seven women who were in close contact with the woman were confirmed to be negative in the PCR test, and five are still being tested. You are requesting admission.

Governor Nishiwaki said, "We take seriously the fact that community-acquired infections have been confirmed in the prefecture. Assuming that the Omicron strain exists, we would like to ask for cooperation in infection control measures such as wearing masks and thorough ventilation." I was.

■Osaka Dec. 22, Japan's first "community infection"

On Dec. 22, an infected person with the Omicron strain, which is believed to be a community infection, was confirmed in Osaka Prefecture for the first time in Japan. . Two men and women in their 30s and three girls under the age of 10 were in the family, and the two men and women had been vaccinated twice. In addition, this family is a family of five, and two other children have been confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus other than the delta strain, and the prefecture is proceeding with genome analysis as a possible infection with the Omicron strain.

Elementary school boys December 23rd is also “community infection”

Governor Yoshimura of Osaka Prefecture announced on December 23rd that there were new infected people living in the prefecture who were believed to have been infected with the Omicron strain in the community. One person has been confirmed.

It is an elementary school boy who has no history of traveling abroad or connection with other infected people, and the route of infection is unknown.

Adding venues to expedite the third vaccination

On the other hand, Governor Yoshimura decided that it was necessary to expedite the third vaccination, and set up his own vaccination venue, such as Shinsaibashi in Chuo-ku, Osaka3. We have clarified our policy to add 6 venues in total.

The venues to be added are ▽ Commercial building “Shinsaibashi SC” in Chuo-ku, Osaka ▽ “Ministry of Justice Correctional Training Institute Osaka Branch Gymnasium” in Sakai-ku, Sakai-shi ▽ “Kansai University Takatsuki Muse Campus” in Takatsuki-shi 2022 It is a policy to start vaccination from the middle of the month.

Together with the three government buildings such as the Osaka Prefectural Government New Annex South Building, which have already been decided to be vaccination venues, there will be six unique vaccination venues for the prefecture, and the third vaccination for the elderly will generally peak2. From mid-May to March, up to 5,800 people can be vaccinated per day.

■Chairman Omi ``It is difficult to stop the increase in infected people''

On December 23, Shigeru Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee for measures against the new coronavirus, confirmed community-acquired infection of the Omicron strain. A press conference was held after hearing the news.

In this, Chairman Omi said, "Considering the history of the spread of the mutated virus in the past, there is almost no doubt that the Omicron strain has been infected in multiple places. The year-end and New Year holidays are the most likely to spread infection in the next year. Given that it will be the time of the year, I think it will be difficult to stop the number of infected people from increasing."

On top of that, ``Omicron stocks are expanding at an unprecedented speed overseas, and there is a concern that once they start spreading in Japan, they will expand rapidly. From now on, after Christmas and year-end parties, when opportunities for person-to-person contact have increased sharply, there is concern that the infection will spread to the area when many people return home. Based on this, we are not asking the general public to cancel their stay home or return home right now, but how we spend this year-end and New Year holidays will affect the future infection status, so we would like to ask for your cooperation." I was.

■ How do you spend the year-end and New Year holidays when infections are most likely to spread?

In addition, Chairman Omi issued a statement summarizing points to prevent the spread of infection during the year-end and New Year holidays. At the moment, it is difficult to imagine the spread of Omicron stock in Japan, but we are carefully considering homecomings, trips, and year-end parties during the year-end and New Year holidays. I called for doing it with as few people as possible.

1. Situation of Omicron strains in Japan

Although it is difficult to imagine a wide area spread at the moment, it is thought that infection has already begun in multiple "spots". If the "spot" infection leads to further spread of infection, it is expected that there will be a large number of patients in a short period of time, and some of them will be seriously ill. There is.

2. Characteristics of the Omicron strain

▽In the United Kingdom and South Africa, it is reported that the number of infected people doubles in an extremely short period of 2 to 3 days. Infection can spread rapidly once the

▽The effectiveness of the vaccine to prevent the onset of the disease is about 70% for the Delta strain, while it may be as low as about 20% for the Omicron strain.

▽ Especially for the elderly, the vaccine is less effective in preventing severe disease, and even those who have been vaccinated may become seriously ill if infected.

3. About the year-end and New Year holidays

Since the year-end and New Year holidays are the times of the year when infections are most likely to spread, we called for the following. ▽Consider carefully about returning home or traveling ▽If you go home or travel If you meet people who have not been vaccinated or who are at high risk of becoming seriously ill, such as the elderly or those who have not been vaccinated, get tested. and refrain from non-essential travel such as sightseeing to other countries

4. If you feel unwell

If you feel even slightly unwell, we strongly recommend that you refrain from going out and visit a medical institution for an examination.

5. End-of-year parties and New Year's parties

He called attention to end-of-year parties and New Year's parties as follows. ▽ Ask to be cautious ▽ Choose a restaurant that has been certified by a third party with ventilation, etc. ▽ Avoid talking in a loud voice or staying for a long time with as few people as possible ▽ When talking during a meal wear a mask

6. Events

It is said that crowds should be avoided as much as possible during events such as New Year's visits and coming-of-age ceremonies.

7. Vaccine 3rd booster

In order to prevent the onset and aggravation of the vaccine, the elderly should be vaccinated as soon as possible, regardless of whether it is Pfizer or Moderna. I called for a booster shot.

■ Tokyo strengthens its vigilance against Omicron stocks

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is also increasing its vigilance against Omicron stocks. Experts at the metropolitan government's monitoring meeting pointed out that further strengthening of the system such as hospitalization and accommodation treatment is required in preparation for the spread of infection.

Nighttime crowd “Achieves the highest level since the corona epidemic”

In addition, at the monitoring meeting, Atsushi Nishida, Director of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Research Center for Social Health Regarding the nighttime crowd of , "Since the epidemic of the new coronavirus began in the past two weeks, it has almost reached the highest level and continues to remain at a fairly high level.In the future, replacement with Omicron stocks will progress rapidly. If it does, there is a good chance that the infection situation will be greatly affected again," he said, showing a sense of caution.

On top of that, ``Drinking for a long time may cause you to neglect basic infection control measures such as wearing a mask. It's important," he called.

``It wouldn't be strange if a community infection occurred at any time.'' We will work on this crisis management system. I ask all the citizens of Tokyo to go back to the basics and thoroughly implement basic infection prevention measures in all situations."

In addition, regarding the fact that there are close contacts of people infected with the Omicron strain who are waiting at home instead of entering the recommended accommodation facility, ``This is the limit of the law, and the Diet is discussing it. It would be fine to discuss a 1 million yen ``document communication transportation fee'', but that is a matter for Nagatacho. I wonder if there are people who have doubts.

After that, he said, ``There may be personal circumstances, but I would like you to understand that staying in accommodation for a while will protect yourself, protect your family, and protect society.'' I called again and again to go into a nursing home.

■ Close contact with a total of 7819 people nationwide

While infections with the "Omicron strain" continue to occur, mainly among people entering the country from overseas, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, people on the same plane have had close contact. As of midnight on December 23, a total of 7,819 people were identified nationwide. 3510 people have increased since midnight on December 22nd.

People who are considered to be close contacts are waiting at waiting facilities designated by quarantine, accommodation facilities prepared by prefectures, and at home and undergoing health observations.

In addition, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is proceeding to identify those who are in close contact with a total of four people in Osaka and Kyoto who are believed to have been infected in the community by December 23rd.

■Prime Minister Kishida “Tests are free even if you are asymptomatic”

Prime Minister Kishida is considering the three prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, and Okinawa, so that those who wish to be tested can be tested free of charge even if they are asymptomatic. showed a policy to

Prime Minister Kishida gave a lecture in Tokyo, saying, ``Anxiety is spreading in Osaka and Kyoto, where community-acquired infections have been confirmed, and in Okinawa, where mass infections have occurred at US military bases. We will make it possible to conduct free tests for all people," he said, and with the three prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto, and Okinawa in mind, in areas where infection control measures are particularly necessary, those who wish to be tested will be tested free of charge, even if they are asymptomatic. I showed a policy to make it possible.

■ Chief Cabinet Secretary ``I'm not thinking about changing the relaxation of movement restrictions''

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference, ``I'm not thinking about changing the easing of movement restrictions immediately at this point, but the infection situation Based on this, we will cooperate with local governments and experts to respond flexibly and with a sense of speed."

Furthermore, ``If the infection spreads rapidly, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare will inspect and strengthen the health and medical care provision system for each prefecture so that the system prepared in preparation for the next spread of infection can be immediately put into operation. We have issued an administrative notice requesting this, and we will continue to take all possible measures."

■Omicron strain spreads worldwide

Infection with Omicron strain is spreading around the world, and WHO = World Health Organization announced on December 21 that there are 106 countries infected with Omicron strain. He announced that it was confirmed in the area and called for caution, saying, ``The infection is spreading faster than the delta strain.''

About 150,000 infected people per day

In the U.S., the infection with the Omicron strain is spreading, and the number of infected people reported per day is December 20. At the time of this writing, the average weekly number is about 150,000, and the number continues to increase rapidly.

Approximately 90% of infected people are Omicron strains

In the UK, on ​​December 22nd, the number of new infected people per day exceeded 100,000, the highest ever. I was. In total, about 74,000 people have been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain, which is believed to account for about 90% of all infected people in London.

Although the number of deaths and serious cases has not increased significantly, the government is feeling a sense of crisis and is rushing to get additional vaccinations by including the military.

■ "Risk of severe disease appears to be lower than the Delta strain, but don't let your guard down"

Dr. After analyzing reports from South Africa and Scotland in the UK, he said, ``It seems that the risk of becoming severe compared to the Delta strain is lower.''

However, he emphasized that if the number of infected people increases significantly, the number of people who become seriously ill will increase, and the burden on medical institutions will increase.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain 4 people infected in Okinawa Prefecture, including Japanese employees at US military bases (12/23)

December 23, 2021

Okinawa Prefecture announced on December 23 that four people, including Japanese employees working at Camp Hansen, were newly infected with the Omicron strain of the new corona.

According to the prefecture, infection with the Omicron strain was confirmed in 3 male and female Japanese employees in their 30s to 50s who work at Camp Hansen of the US Army, and 1 Japanese male under the age of 10. I'm a person.

A male under the age of 10 is a family member of a previously confirmed case of Omicron strain infection.

None of the four patients had severe symptoms.

There are now 10 people infected with the Omicron strain in Okinawa Prefecture.

In addition, on December 23, the US military contacted the prefecture that 27 people were confirmed to be infected.

The breakdown is: ▽9 at Camp Hansen, ▽9 at Camp Courtney, ▽2 at Camp Zukeran, ▽1 each at Kadena Air Base, Camp Schwab, and Torii Communications Facility, ▽4 under confirmation. Camp Hansen's large cluster has grown to 232 people.

In Kin Town, where Camp Hansen is located, Okinawa Prefecture has set up a free PCR test site from December 22nd, but all 77 people who were tested on December 22nd were negative.

The inspection will continue on December 24th.

Back to Table of Contents

Dr. Fauci, U.S.A. Omicron strain severity risk lower than delta strain (12/23)

December 23, 2021

Dr. Fauci, the chief medical adviser of the US government, said that the risk of severe illness in the Omicron strain, a mutant virus of the new coronavirus, "seems to be lower than the Delta strain." On the other hand, he stressed the need to remain vigilant and continue to take measures, as a significant increase in the number of infected people will increase the burden on medical institutions.

In the United States, the infection of a new mutant virus, the Omicron strain, is spreading, and the number of infected people reported per day is about 150,000 per week as of December 20th. continued to increase.

Dr. Fauci, the US government's chief medical adviser, said at a press conference on December 22 that the Omicron strain was "extremely contagious," and analyzed reports from South Africa and Scotland in the United Kingdom. As a result, he said, "It seems that the risk of becoming severe compared to the delta strain is low."

However, if the number of infected people increases significantly, the number of people who become seriously ill will increase, and the burden on medical institutions will increase. bottom.

In addition, as the infection spreads rapidly, Dr. Fauci has taken additional infection control measures, such as vaccinating and testing for viruses, for those who travel or have dinner during Christmas and New Year holidays. I'm calling you to do it.

Back to Table of Contents

What is the infectivity of the Omicron strain? What about exacerbation? What we learned (12/22)

December 22, 2021

A new mutated virus "Omicron strain" has been confirmed as a case of community-acquired infection in Osaka Prefecture.

In countries where community-acquired infections have been reported, such as Europe and the United States, it has become more dominant than the delta strain, and it has become clear that it is highly infectious.

Experts say that it is necessary to assume that community-acquired infections of the Omicron strain will occur in Japan and that the infection will spread.

A summary of what we have learned so far.

(as of December 22, 2021)

Omicron strain, first domestic “community infection”

On December 22nd, three of the confirmed infections with Omicron strain in Osaka Prefecture had no history of traveling abroad and were infected. It was announced that it is considered to be a "community infection" whose route is unknown.

The three are a family of a man and woman in their 30s and a girl under the age of 10 who have been hospitalized with mild symptoms.

Community infection means that an ``infection that cannot be traced'' has occurred in the city, and it is believed that the infection may spread to the area in the future.

The first case of infection with the Omicron strain in Japan was confirmed in quarantine in a case of a person who entered the country on November 28, so community-acquired infection was confirmed in a little over three weeks.

Until now, mutated viruses such as the alpha and delta strains have been imported from overseas, but in all cases, community-acquired infections have occurred in about 3 weeks to 1 month after being found in quarantine.

It is only a matter of time before they are found in the city, and the main focus of the current waterfront measures is to prepare for medical care and inspections during that time.

There is no doubt that it will spread domestically in the future, and experts who have been involved in countermeasures are watching, and we have entered the phase of how much we can reduce the speed of the spread of infection in Japan.

Several reports of ``highly infectious'' Omicron strain

There have been a series of reports that the Omicron strain appears to be more infectious than the previously reported mutant viruses.

Omicron stocks are becoming dominant even in the United Kingdom and the United States, where delta stocks have occupied almost all so far.

In the UK, the cumulative number of people infected with the Omicron strain exceeded 60,000 by December 21, and in London, the capital, currently, approximately 90% of the new coronaviruses detected are Omicron strains. In addition, in the United States, the CDC = Center for Disease Control last week said that the share of Omicron stocks in the United States in the week ending December 18 was 73.2%, a six-fold increase from 12.6% in the previous week. increase.

Also, WHO = The World Health Organization says that in countries where community transmission of the Omicron strain has been confirmed, the time to double the number of infected people is 1.5 to 3 days, and Secretary-General Tedros said at a press conference on December 20, ``There is consistent evidence that it is spreading significantly faster than the Delta strain. and calls for caution.

New Year's holiday Be wary of the expansion of the "sixth wave" of Omicron stocks

In Japan, the number of people infected with the new coronavirus continues to be the lowest since the summer of 2020.

However, the number of people attending the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meetings is increasing at night in various places. He points out that it is necessary to pay attention to future trends in infection, as it is expected that the chances of contact with will increase.

I am wary that the Omicron strain will enter here, and the "sixth wave" of infection will spread greatly, and the burden on medical care will increase.

"Mild symptoms even if infected?" Needs to be viewed carefully

On the other hand, there is a view that the Omicron strain may have a low rate of becoming severe even if infected, but the WHO etc. still need to be looked at carefully.

Most people from Europe, America, and South Korea are reporting mild or no symptoms.

By December 21st, England had over 56,000 confirmed cases of Omicron, 129 hospitalizations and 14 deaths. .

The US CDC = Center for Disease Control said, ``Early data suggests that infection with the Omicron strain is less likely to cause severe disease than previous mutant viruses, but data is still limited. "Even if the proportion of people who develop severe symptoms is lower than with previous mutant viruses, the number of people who develop severe symptoms will be considerable given the increase in the number of infected people."

In addition, it may take a certain amount of time for the number of infected people to become severe and the number of deaths to increase after the number of infected people increases. "The number of hospitalizations continues to increase in the UK and South Africa, and the rapid increase in the number of infected people may strain the medical system," he said. .

Some cases of infection after vaccination

In Japan, the third vaccination has begun for medical workers, and in the future, it will be targeted at the elderly and those at high risk of becoming seriously ill. The inoculation will also begin.

In Japan, nearly 80% of people have been vaccinated, and the situation is different from the past when the infection spread. reported in stocks.

On the other hand, Pfizer and Moderna, which have developed mRNA vaccines that are often used in Japan, have increased the level of neutralizing antibodies that suppress the action of the virus by performing the third inoculation, and against Omicron strains. We have also announced the results of experiments that can be expected to have sufficient effects.

Until the infectivity and the susceptibility to serious illness (pathogenicity) if infected are determined, the maximum vigilance is taken.

Comparison with previous mutant viruses

Information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc. In addition, it was summarized in the form of comparison with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

Infectivity

It has been pointed out that the Omicron strain may have increased infectivity, judging from the number of spike protein mutations.

WHO says the Omicron strain is spreading faster than the Delta strain.

Virulence

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States issued a report on December 10th, saying that most cases of the Omicron strain in the United States are mild.

There is a certain amount of time between being infected and becoming severe, and people who have been vaccinated or who have been infected in the past can be infected with the Omicron strain and become mild. As a possibility, pathogenicity shows the idea that it will become clear as the number of cases increases in the future.

Risk of re-infection

▽ "Alpha strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is maintained, is the risk of re-infection the same as the conventional strain?

▽ "Beta strain" → The function of antibodies that suppress viruses is reduced, the function of cells that attack viruses is maintained

▽ "Gamma strain" → The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced

▽ "Delta strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is reduced

▽ "Omicron strain" → The risk of reinfection is expected to increase

The WHO says that there are mutations that make it easier to reinfect even those who are immune from vaccines or past infections.

In South Africa, a study reported that the risk of reinfection was 2.39 times higher in November than before.

The WHO says more data is needed, but early data suggest that the risk of reinfection appears to be on the rise.

Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

▽ "Alpha strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Beta strain" → No change in prevention of onset and prevention of aggravation

▽ "Gamma strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Delta strain" → No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation (There is also a report that prevention of infection and onset is reduced)

▽"Omicron stock"

→Reports of decreased neutralizing antibodies and decreased preventive effects on the onset, and reports of experiments that “raise neutralizing antibodies” with the third vaccination

There have been reports of cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who have completed vaccination.

The WHO says that early data suggest the vaccine may be less effective.

On December 20, Moderna announced the results of an initial experiment conducted in the laboratory, and in the case of the Omicron strain, in the blood of people who received two doses of the virus, there were no neutralizing antibodies that suppress the action of the virus. It is said that the effect has decreased compared to the conventional virus.

On the other hand, after receiving the third booster dose, the neutralizing antibody value was about 37 times higher than the first dose, and about 83 times higher with the same dose. We can expect a good effect on stocks.”

Pfizer also announced on December 8 that regarding the effectiveness of the vaccine against the Omicron strain, the third dose increased the neutralizing antibody value by 25 times compared to the two doses, compared to the conventional virus. It shows early experimental results suggesting a similar increase.

Efficacy of therapeutic agents

Due to the mutation of the Omicron strain, there is concern that it may affect the "antibody cocktail therapy" administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Infection route

The new coronavirus infection route is mainly small droplets floating in a closed room called "micro-droplets". Contact infection by touching etc. has also been reported.

There is a possibility that the Omicron strain may be more infectious, but it is believed to be the same route of infection.

Professor Koji Wada ``Consider how to deal with the possibility that it is spreading around''

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said, ``The infectivity of the Omicron strain is Given that it was stronger than before, it was fully expected that it would break through the quarantine.This time, it happened to be in Osaka, but it wouldn't be strange to find a case of community-acquired infection anywhere in Japan. In areas where community-acquired infections have been confirmed, the infection is thought to be spreading to the surrounding area, so the key is how to prevent further spread. It is necessary to consider how to respond to the premise that it will spread.It is becoming clear that the speed of infection of Omicron strain is extremely fast.If the infection spreads in hospitals, etc., medical staff will not be able to go to work, and medical staff will be unable to go to work. It is also assumed that the situation will be tight, and we need to be careful of industries that are necessary to maintain social functions such as infrastructure."

Professor Wada recommends that people with symptoms should not go out and see a medical institution as soon as possible and get tested, and if there is even the slightest change in their physical condition such as a runny nose, refrain from attending meetings, etc., and refrain from attending dinners. It is important to take actions to reduce the risk of infection, such as doing it in a short time with a small number of people.

Specially Appointed Professor Mitsuo Kaku ``Have a strong sense of crisis again''

In addition, Specially Appointed Professor Mitsuo Kaku of Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University said, ``I know that the infection is spreading significantly overseas. When you think about it, there was a possibility that community-acquired infections could occur in Japan.So far, we have been building a medical system in preparation for the sixth wave, but we have been working on responding to severe cases and responding to mild and moderate cases. I think there are many people who are planning year-end parties and homecomings for the year-end and New Year holidays, but with the emergence of Omicron stocks, I have a strong sense of crisis once again. I want you to take basic infection control measures such as wearing a mask, washing your hands, ventilating, avoiding the 3Cs, and keeping your distance.This should lead to preventing the 6th wave as much as possible." increase.

Same measures as before

Currently, research on the infectivity and pathogenicity of the Omicron strain is underway around the world, and the WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases are We will update the information.

The measures we can take are the same as before.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing masks, disinfecting, and avoiding crowds.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “community infection” 3 family members in Osaka prefecture infection route unknown (12/22)

December 22, 2021

Governor Yoshimura of Osaka Prefecture said at the meeting of the new corona task force held on December 22 that four people living in the prefecture were infected with a new mutated virus, the "Omicron strain", and three of them were infected. I made it clear that I don't know the route.

Governor Yoshimura said, "It is a community infection," and indicated his intention to strengthen measures.

The Osaka Prefectural Countermeasures Headquarters meeting was held after 2:00 pm on December 22nd, and at the beginning, Governor Yoshimura announced that four people living in the prefecture were infected with a new mutated virus, the "Omicron strain." announced that it has been confirmed.

Three of them are from the same family and have no history of traveling abroad, and the route of infection is unknown.

The symptoms of the three people are mild and have already been hospitalized.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, a total of three men and women in their 30s and a girl under the age of 10 living in Osaka Prefecture were confirmed to be infected this time.

The three are family members, and according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, they have not recently traveled overseas, and at this time they have not been confirmed to be in contact with people infected with the Omicron strain.

Three people are complaining of fever and are currently hospitalized in a medical institution.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare sees this as the first case of so-called community infection, where the route of infection is unknown, and dispatches an expert from the National Institute of Infectious Diseases to Osaka Prefecture to We are in the process of identifying.

In addition, he said, "The speed of the spread of infection may be much faster than this summer." and inspections, and to strengthen the system of health observation at home.

In addition, in Osaka Prefecture, one new infection was confirmed in a man in his 30s who entered Turkey from Kansai Airport on December 18th.

Governor Yoshimura ``There is a good possibility in other places in Osaka'' There is a good chance that an infection has occurred, so I would like to ask you to take measures based on that assumption."

The public health center is investigating the three close contacts who are suspected of community-acquired infection, and will be tested as soon as they are known.

On the other hand, another person who was confirmed to be infected this time had a history of traveling abroad and was not confirmed to be infected by the quarantine inspection at the time of entry. It means that the infection was found during the stay in

Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Goto "It corresponds to community-acquired infection"

In response to the confirmation of an infected person in Osaka Prefecture with the "Omicron strain" whose route of infection is unknown at this time, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto told reporters, ``Osaka Prefecture is investigating in cooperation with the expert team of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, but at the moment the route of infection is unknown, and we take it as a case of so-called community-acquired infection. We will take necessary measures," he said.

On top of that, we plan to continue the border measures that are currently in place, which in principle suspends new entry of foreigners, and the monitoring system that tests "Omicron strain" for all domestic infected people. showed.

In addition, in preparation for the spread of infection in Japan, Minister Goto said that even if the number of people recuperating at home increases, they should be able to properly perform health observations and medical examinations, secure a testing system, and promptly drink after approval. It was revealed that the prefecture was notified on December 22 that it would be possible to provide medicine.

Furthermore, in this, we are asking for an early decision to raise the "phase" that indicates the infection status in order to secure beds as soon as possible.

And, "The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has the view that as a basic infection prevention measure, even if it is a mutant strain, it is recommended to avoid the 3 Cs, wear a mask, wash your hands, etc. I would like to ask the public to cooperate with infection prevention measures."

Expert “community infection can occur anywhere in Japan”

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said, "The infectivity of the Omicron strain is Given that it is stronger than before, it was fully expected that it would break through the quarantine.This time, it happened to be in Osaka, but it wouldn't be strange to find a case of community-acquired infection anywhere in Japan." pointed out.

On top of that, ``In areas where community-acquired infections have been confirmed, the infection is likely to spread to the surrounding area, so the key is how to prevent it from spreading further. If you have even the slightest change in your physical condition, such as a runny nose, refrain from attending meetings, and have dinners with a small number of people for a short time. In addition, it will be difficult to visit medical institutions during the year-end and New Year holidays, so it is necessary for each local government to immediately consider how to prepare a medical examination system."

Expert “Have a strong sense of crisis once again”

Professor Mitsuo Kaku of Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University said, Considering the fact that the number of infections has spread significantly overseas, it was possible for community-acquired infections to occur in Japan as well. By the way, there is a high possibility that it will occur in large cities, but it is necessary to respond with the idea that it is already spreading not only in Osaka but also in Tokyo and other cities. Although the medical system has been built, there is a need for meticulous responses, such as responding to severe cases and responding to mild and moderate cases."

On top of that, ``I think there are many people who are planning year-end parties and homecomings for the year-end and New Year holidays, but with the emergence of Omicron stocks, I would like them to have a strong sense of crisis once again. I want you to be even more thorough with basic infection control measures such as wearing clothes, washing your hands, ventilating, avoiding the three Cs, and keeping your distance.This should lead to preventing the 6th wave as much as possible."

Back to Table of Contents

US CDC estimated 73.2% of infected people in 1 week to be Omicron strain, about 6 times the previous week (12/21)

December 21, 2021

CDC = Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on December 20, estimated that more than 70% of people infected with the new coronavirus in the United States in the week ending December 18 were due to a new mutant virus, the Omicron strain. announced the latest analysis results.

On December 20th, the CDC released its latest analysis estimating the proportion of the mutated new coronavirus spreading in the United States.

According to this, it is estimated that 73.2% of the people infected with the new coronavirus in the week ending December 18th were infected with the new mutant virus, the Omicron strain, compared to 12.6% of the previous week. has increased approximately sixfold since then.

By region, the Omicron strain surpassed the previously dominant Delta strain in many places, with 92% infection in eastern New York and New Jersey, and 92.3% in areas such as midwestern Illinois and Ohio. It is estimated that Omicron strains occupy most of the areas where the number of cases is increasing rapidly.

In the United States, the number of infected people reported per day averaged over 127,000 per week as of December 18, and the number of hospitalizations was about 7,500, respectively. More than 30% increase in one month.

With the increase in the number of infected people, there is a shortage of beds and staff at medical institutions, and in the eastern and midwestern areas where the infection is spreading, some hospitals are postponing non-urgent surgeries, providing sufficient medical care. There is growing concern about what will become impossible.

Back to Table of Contents

WHO Director-General Omicron Strain "Spreading among Vaccines" (12/21)

December 21, 2021

WHO = Director-General Tedros of the World Health Organization said that the new coronavirus mutated virus, the Omicron strain, spreads at a significantly faster speed than the Delta strain, and in people who have been vaccinated or who have recovered after infection. It also showed the view that it was spreading and called for vigilance.

WHO held a face-to-face press conference on December 20 at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, for the first time in about a year and five months.

In it, Director-General Tedros said of the Omicron strain of the mutant virus, “There is consistent evidence that it is spreading at a significantly faster rate than the Delta strain. It seems that it may be infected, ”he said, calling for caution.

As for the Omicron strain, Pfizer and Moderna, which manufacture so-called "mRNA vaccines", have announced that the third dose can be expected to be effective against the Omicron strain. Mr. Swaminathan said, ``It is too early to conclude that other vaccines are ineffective against Omicron strains,'' and indicated the need to carefully analyze other vaccines.

In addition, although the WHO investigation team conducted a survey in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, the source of the outbreak has not yet been identified. The investigation will not succeed," he reiterated his recognition that the Chinese government's cooperation was insufficient, and called for improvements.

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona 14 people who entered the country confirmed Omicron strain infection, total 82 people (12/20)

December 20, 2021

It was newly confirmed that 14 people who entered Japan from December 12th to 16th were infected with the new coronavirus mutated virus "Omicron strain".

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, infection with the Omicron strain was confirmed between December 12th and 16th at Haneda Airport and Narita Airport, as well as men and women in their 60s who entered the country from Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, and Kansai Airport. 14 people.

It means that he has stayed in the United States, the United Kingdom, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan, and has tested positive for the new coronavirus in airport quarantines and in waiting accommodation.

At the time of entry, 2 people complained of symptoms such as fever and cough, and 12 people were asymptomatic.

Also, 12 were vaccinated and 2 under the age of 10 were not.

In addition, one infection was announced in each of Tokyo, Okinawa, and Gunma.

With this, 82 people have been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Japan.

Cases of infection in Okinawa, Tokyo, Gunma

One new case of infection with the Omicron strain was announced in each of Okinawa Prefecture, Tokyo Prefecture, and Gunma Prefecture.

▽ In Okinawa Prefecture, a woman in her 40s was confirmed to be infected. She has no history of staying abroad recently, and was working at "Camp Hansen", a US Marine Corps base where an infected person with the Omicron strain has already been confirmed.

▽ In Tokyo and Gunma prefectures, men in their 40s and 50s who have stayed in Kenya have been confirmed to be infected. The two entered the country from Narita Airport on December 12th and 15th, and were at home or accommodation, and are currently hospitalized at a medical institution.

Back to Table of Contents

AI predicts that the number of infected people in Tokyo may exceed 3,000 per day due to the spread of Omicron stocks (12/17)

December 17, 2021

A group at Nagoya Institute of Technology predicted the future infection status of the new coronavirus in Tokyo using AI = artificial intelligence. It was calculated that the number of infected people per day could exceed 3,000 by the end of January 2022. Experts say, "It's important to continue to take measures without letting your guard down just because the number of infected people is small."

Professor Akimasa Hirata's group at Nagoya Institute of Technology made the prediction.

In the group, we input data on the flow of people, past infection status, and data such as the infectivity of the Omicron strain reported at the moment and the impact on the effectiveness of vaccines into the AI, predicted the spread of infection in

As a result, if the so-called "community infection" of the Omicron strain, whose infection route is unknown, began on December 16, the number of infected people in Tokyo per day will reach 3,000 by the end of January 2022. It surpassed the number of people, and the calculation result was about 3700 people in mid-February.

On the other hand, assuming that the "community infection" of the Omicron strain begins one month later, on January 16, 2022, although it will exceed 2,000 in late February, it will reach a maximum of 2,200 per day after that. It was a result of surplus people.

According to the group, if the spread of Omicron strains coincides with the year-end and New Year holidays when people move and drink parties increase, there is a risk that the infection will increase thereafter.

Professor Hirata said, "Currently, the quarantine is quite strict, but it is considered difficult to completely prevent the Omicron strain from entering. It's important to keep going," he said.

Two people infected with the Omicron strain in Tokyo Also in Okinawa

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, on December 17, two new people were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Tokyo.

One of them was a close contact of a woman who was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain on December 16th, and went to see the semifinals of the soccer Emperor's Cup held in Kawasaki on December 12th. Therefore, the city is calling on spectators who were nearby to get tested through the local public health center.

In addition, it is related that a Japanese man in his 50s who works at Camp Hansen, a US Marine Corps base in the northern part of the main island of Okinawa, has been infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona. I found out by interviewing people.

Okinawa Prefecture is also analyzing samples for close contacts.

The number of infected people has stopped falling

Comparing the weekly average number of new coronavirus infections, the number of infected people nationwide has remained at the lowest level since the summer of 2020. However, there are some places such as Tokyo where the number of infected people is small but has increased slightly, and the decline has stopped at 1.12 times the previous week nationwide.

NHK has summarized the trends in the number of new infections on average per week, compared to the previous week, based on the number of infected people announced by local governments.

Nationwide

Nationwide, the number of new infections has decreased since the end of August 2021, ▽ 0.84 times compared to the previous week in the week until November 18, ▽ November 25 The number of days decreased by 0.67 times for 13 consecutive weeks until late November.

After that, it was 0.99 times on December 2nd, 1.10 times on December 9th, and 1.12 times by December 16th.

In addition, the number of new infections per day is about 127, which is the lowest level since the summer of 2020.

1 metropolis and 3 prefectures

In the week leading up to December 2, Tokyo was ▽ 0.98 times higher than the previous week, ▽ December 9 was ▽ 1.11 times, ▽ December 16 Until today, it was 1.26 times, and the number of infected people is small, but it is increasing slightly.

The number of new infections per day is about 21, and the number of infections per 100,000 people in the last week is 1.06.

In Kanagawa Prefecture, the number of new infections per day was ▽ 0.82 times compared to the previous week for the week until December 2nd, ▽ 1.04 times for December 9th, and ▽ 1.47 times for December 16th. The number of people is about 16 people.

In Saitama Prefecture, the number of new infections per day was ▽ 1.20 times compared to the previous week in the week until December 2nd, ▽ 1.04 times in December 9th, and ▽ 0.85 times in the period until December 16th. The number of people is about 7 people.

Chiba Prefecture is ▽ 1.32 times the previous week for the week until December 2nd, ▽ 1.28 times for December 9th, ▽ 1.38 times for December 16th, the number of new infections per day is about 7 people.

Okinawa/Hokkaido

Up to mid-November, Okinawa Prefecture had decreased for 13 consecutive weeks. ▽ December 9th was 1.77 times, ▽ December 16th was 1.30 times, and the number of new infections per day was about 4.

Hokkaido was ▽ 0.61 times the previous week for the week until December 2nd, ▽ December 9th was 0.53 times the previous week, and decreased for 3 consecutive weeks, but ▽ 1.10 until December 16th This doubles the number of new infections per day to about 5.

Kansai

Osaka Prefecture is ▽ 0.97 times the previous week for the week until December 2, ▽ 0.90 times for December 9, and ▽ 0.88 times for December 16 The situation has remained almost flat, and the number of new infections per day is 11.

In Kyoto Prefecture, the number of new infections per day was ▽ 0.24 times the previous week for the week until December 2nd, ▽ 2.25 times for December 9th, and ▽ 2.00 times for December 16th. is about 3 people.

In Hyogo Prefecture, the number of new infections per day was ▽ 0.97 times the previous week for the week until December 2nd, ▽ 1.32 times for December 9th, and ▽ 0.78 times for December 16th. is about 4 people.

Chubu

In Aichi Prefecture, it is ▽ 1.00 times the previous week for the week until December 2nd, ▽ 1.00 times for December 9th, ▽ 1.02 times even for December 16th. It has remained flat, with about 6 new infections per day.

Expert "Everyone should be careful during the year-end and New Year holidays"

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on new coronavirus countermeasures, commented on the current infection status. "The level is still low, but it may be that the decline has bottomed out and there may be a slight upward trend. The number of people at the year-end and New Year holidays has increased, and the number of year-end parties and New Year's parties has also increased. Considering that the effect will decrease after more than a month, there are almost no factors that reduce the number of infections.I think we have to be very careful."

Also, regarding the Omicron strain, ``There is no doubt that it has been considerably prevented by border measures, but it is not perfect. In addition to being highly infectious, it has been reported that people who have been vaccinated for more than 6 months avoid immunity and become infected, so once they enter the country, it spreads rapidly. It is important to consider the risks.It is important to give a booster vaccination as soon as possible for the elderly who have passed 6 months after vaccination and those who have a weak immune system.In addition, it is important to prepare a system for home medical treatment and prevent abnormalities. It is important for the entire region to create a system to promptly transfer to a medical institution if it is seen."

In addition, regarding the points to note during the year-end and New Year holidays, he said, "Even if you get a vaccine and the test is negative, you may still be infected. It is important to take appropriate infection control measures.It is important for each individual to be careful about returning home and meeting people who cannot meet on a daily basis."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain 2 new infections confirmed in Tokyo, 1 person is a close contact (12/17)

December 17, 2021

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, it was confirmed that two people were newly infected with the Omicron strain in Tokyo. One of them was a close contact of a woman who was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain on December 16th. is calling on nearby spectators to get tested through their local health department.

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, on December 17th, two new people were confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Tokyo.

One of them is a man in his twenties who lives in Tokyo.

The man went to see the soccer Emperor's Cup semi-final match held at Kawasaki's Todoroki Athletics Stadium on December 12, and Miyako told about 80 spectators nearby that the local We will contact you through the public health center and ask you to take the test.

In addition, a total of 10 people, including the man's family and colleagues, are close contacts, and are asking for cooperation to enter a nursing home.

In addition, the company plans to conduct health observations and tests on about 170 people, including those who worked near men and colleagues on the same floor.

Another person who was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain on December 17th is a man in his 50s living in Tokyo.

This man returned from the United States on December 11th and was quarantined at home after a negative test at Haneda airport quarantine.

Symptoms appeared on December 12, the day after returning to Japan, and after that, infection with the new corona was confirmed, so analysis revealed that he was infected with the Omicron strain on December 17. .

It is said that the three family members who are close contacts of this man have not been confirmed to be infected so far, but they are making adjustments to observe their health at an accommodation facility.

Governor Koike “Thorough measures at the border will lead to safety and security”

Regarding the confirmation of two new infections with the Omicron strain in Tokyo, Governor Koike said at a press conference, " At the moment, epidemiological research has already caught up on where, what, and who he is meeting, so it may not be included in the definition of 'community infection'," he said, saying that it does not fall under community infection at this time. showed recognition.

In addition, in order to prevent the influx into the country, he expressed the idea that all immigrants should wait in a quarantine facility until the test results for the Omicron strain can be confirmed.

On top of that, Governor Koike said, ``Thoroughly implementing border measures may lead to a safe and secure world. Crisis management is all about keeping as wide a range as possible.'' emphasized that the

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron stock confirmed infection of one woman in her 20s who is waiting at home Tokyo announced (12/16)

December 16, 2021

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced on December 16 that a woman in her 20s who had returned from overseas and was waiting at home was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain.

One of the close contacts of this woman has also been confirmed to be infected with the new corona, and the city is analyzing whether it is the Omicron strain.

According to the city, a woman in her 20s living in Tokyo was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain.

This woman returned from the United States on December 8th and was negative in the test at the time of entry, but had fever symptoms on the 9th when she was waiting at home.

After that, on December 13th, he was found to be infected with the new corona, and as a result of genome analysis at the Tokyo Health and Safety Research Center, on December 16th, it was confirmed that he was infected with the Omicron strain.

The city is confirming that the passengers who were on the same plane as this woman are close contacts.

On the other hand, one man in his 20s living in Tokyo who this woman met on December 8th and 9th is a close contact.

According to the city, the man was confirmed to be infected with the new corona on December 15, and is analyzing whether it is an Omicron strain.

This means that a total of 10 people, including 3 of this man's family members and 7 colleagues at work, are close contacts.

In addition, the man went to see the semi-final match of the soccer Emperor's Cup held at Todoroki Athletics Stadium in Kawasaki City on December 12, so the capital was watching the match nearby. 80 spectators have been contacted through the local health department and asked to be tested.

Governor Koike of Tokyo "I will suppress it at any cost"

Governor Koike of Tokyo told reporters, "Thorough measures against borders will suppress new mutant strains, Since it will be directly connected, I would like to work with the national government and other local governments to suppress it.

On top of that, ``If you enter from a country other than the designated country, you can go home immediately, but there are actually infected people. Also, I would like people who have returned home to act with in mind that they may create the next close contact."

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno ``I don't think community-acquired infections have occurred.'' The confirmed cases were confirmed to be positive during the 14-day stay-at-home period, and those who had close contact It has been identified, and we do not believe that a so-called community infection has occurred."

On top of that, it was confirmed that one close contact person watched the soccer Emperor's Cup at Todoroki Athletics Stadium in Kawasaki City on December 12, saying, "From the perspective of thorough infection control, I was at the stadium on the day. If you are not feeling well, please avoid going out as much as possible and seek medical attention."

Back to Table of Contents

What is the infectivity of the Omicron strain? What about exacerbation? What we learned (12/15)

December 15, 2021

A new mutant virus "Omicron strain" that has been confirmed in many countries and regions, including Japan.

While it is gradually becoming apparent that the infection is likely to be strong, there are many reports that even if infected, the symptoms are mild.

It may take time to find out whether it is really true or whether it is likely to become severe, so it should be carefully watched.

A summary of what we have learned so far. (As of December 15, 2021)

The Omicron strain is more infectious than the Delta strain?

Regarding the Omicron strain, WHO = World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a press conference on December 14 that "so far, 77 countries have confirmed infected people" and "actually "It's already spread to most countries, even if it hasn't been detected in the country."

It is said that Omicron strains have been replaced in South Africa.

In South Africa, it was thought that the Delta strain spread faster than the Delta strain because the infection had subsided.

After that, even in the United Kingdom, where there were many infections with the delta strain, it is now spreading at a faster speed than the delta strain.

For this reason, the WHO says that the evidence is still limited, but the infection is spreading faster than the delta strain.

In April 2021, the delta strain was designated as "VOC = Mutant Virus of Concern" on the site "GISAID" where virus gene sequences are registered from research institutes around the world. The proportion of all new coronaviruses has increased. Even in the most recent two months, 99.2% were Delta stocks, but that percentage dropped for the first time this week as Omicron stocks rose.

In addition, a group led by Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University, especially in Gauteng Province in South Africa, where the Omicron strain is widespread, the "effective reproduction number", which indicates how many people one person infects, is the number of delta strains. It is 4.2 times, and it is said that it is at least 2 times more even if the data bias is corrected.

As a result of comparing the declining Delta strain and the rapidly increasing Omicron strain, it is said that the infectivity of the Omicron strain itself is not yet known. Based on the analysis of the percentage of people who have been infected, the effect of immunity to prevent infection against the Omicron strain is only about 20%, and it is believed that it is rapidly expanding due to reinfection that slips through immunity.

Is it more widespread than currently reported

In Europe, the virus has been detected in people who entered the country from countries where Omicron strains have not been reported, and genetic analysis has not been conducted sufficiently. Some countries do not.

For this reason, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases points out that the infection of the Omicron strain may have already spread, mainly in Africa.

Experts are concerned that there may be more infections around the world than we can see, much like when the alpha and delta strains spread.

It is also pointed out that the number of people infected with the new coronavirus is the lowest since the summer of 2020.

However, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meetings, the effect of the vaccine weakens over time, and the infection spreads due to the increase in activities in closed indoor environments where the temperature drops and the infection easily spreads. It points out the possibility that the “sixth wave” of

Experts are wary that if the Omicron strain is highly infectious, it will spread as a "sixth wave" during the season when it is already easy to spread infection, resulting in a large spread of infection.

Is it less likely to become severe? Watch carefully

On December 13, British Prime Minister Johnson announced that at least one person had died from the Omicron strain.

In South Africa, the number of hospitalized patients with the new coronavirus increased by 82% in the week since the end of November, although the percentage of people infected with the Omicron strain is not clear.

On top of that, if the number of infected people increases, the number of hospitalized patients will increase, and more information is needed to grasp the whole picture.

On the other hand, reports from Europe, America, and South Korea indicate that most people have mild or no symptoms.

The WHO said, ``It is mild or asymptomatic in the range reported in Europe,'' and although it may be lower than the delta strain, it is cautious that additional data is needed to make a judgment. .

The reason is that it takes a certain amount of time after the number of infected people increases until the number of people who become seriously ill or die increases.

Furthermore, at a press conference on December 14, WHO Director-General Tedros expressed concern that people were underestimating the danger of the Omicron strain, and said, "Even if the symptoms are mild, Even if there are many infected people, the medical system will not work again," he said, calling for continued infection control measures such as vaccination and wearing masks.

If many people are infected, the infection spreads to those who are likely to become seriously ill.

For this reason, it is said that the medical care that was experienced in the "fifth wave" of this summer in Japan may be in a critical state, and for this reason, we are calling for continued infection control.

Currently, nearly 80% of people have completed vaccination, and although the situation is different from that of previous outbreaks, there have been reports of cases in which even vaccinated people become infected with the Omicron strain. I'm here.

The maximum vigilance is taken until the infectivity and the susceptibility to serious illness (pathogenicity) if infected are determined.

Comparison with previous mutated viruses

Based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, public institutions in each country, etc., such as infectivity and pathogenicity I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

Infectivity

It has been pointed out that the Omicron strain may have increased infectivity, judging from the number of spike protein mutations.

The WHO says the evidence is limited, but the Omicron strain spreads faster than the Delta strain.

Pathogenicity

Dr. He said it was too early to say for sure and more research was needed.

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States, in a report issued on December 10, said that most cases of the Omicron strain in the United States are mild.

There is a certain amount of time between being infected and becoming severe, and people who have been vaccinated or who have been infected in the past can be infected with the Omicron strain and become mild. As a possibility, it shows the idea that pathogenicity will become clear as the number of cases increases in the future.

Risk of re-infection

▽ "Alpha strain" → Maintains the function of antibodies that suppress the virus, is the risk of re-infection the same as the conventional strain?

▽ "Beta strain" → The function of antibodies that suppress viruses is reduced, the function of cells that attack viruses is maintained

▽ "Gamma strain" → The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced

▽ "Delta strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is reduced

▽ "Omicron strain" → There is also a report that the risk of reinfection may increase

The WHO says that there are mutations that make it easier to reinfect even those who are immune from vaccines or past infections.

In South Africa, a study reported that the risk of reinfection was 2.39 times higher in November than before.

The WHO says more data is needed, but early data suggest that the risk of reinfection appears to be on the rise.

Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

▽ "Alpha strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Beta strain" → No change in prevention of onset and prevention of aggravation

▽ "Gamma strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Delta strain" → No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation (There is also a report that prevention of infection and onset is reduced)

▽ "Omicron strain" → There are also reports of a decrease in neutralizing antibodies and a decrease in the onset prevention effect (*There is also a view that it is effective in preventing aggravation)

There have been reports of cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who have completed vaccination. The WHO says early data suggest the vaccine may be less effective.

Studies on the effectiveness of vaccines are slowly starting to be published.

The African Institute for Health Research in South Africa analyzed the effectiveness of the vaccine against the Omicron strain using the blood of 12 people vaccinated with Pfizer, and found that neutralizing antibody levels were higher than those against the conventional virus. announced that it was about 1/40th of the previous year.

Although it has not been peer-reviewed by a third-party expert, it has also shown a trial calculation that the onset prevention effect is only 22.5% compared to conventional viruses.

Among them, 5 out of 6 people who were vaccinated after being infected with the new coronavirus had a relatively high effect of neutralizing antibodies, so they said, ``By receiving a third booster vaccination, etc. It is highly possible that it can enhance the action of neutralizing antibodies and prevent aggravation."

The CEO of Biontech, which developed the vaccine with Pfizer, said in an interview with American media that it is likely that Omicron strains are also effective in preventing severe disease.

Pfizer, a major American pharmaceutical company, said on December 8, regarding the effect of the vaccine against the Omicron strain, the third dose increased the neutralizing antibody value by 25 times that of the second dose, and the conventional Early experiments showed it increased to the same extent as it did against the virus.

Also, a South African health insurer said on Dec. 14 that two doses of the Pfizer vaccine were 93% effective in preventing hospitalization during the Delta outbreak, compared with Omicron. We have announced the analysis result that we maintained 70% even during the epidemic.

Efficacy of therapeutic agents

Due to the mutation of the Omicron strain, there is concern that it may affect the "antibody cocktail therapy" administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in critically ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Infection route

The new coronavirus infection route is mainly small droplets floating in a closed room called "micro-droplets". Contact infection by touching etc. has also been reported.

There is a possibility that the Omicron strain has become more infectious, but it is believed to be the same route of infection.

Expert ``Take countermeasures on the premise that community-acquired If you look at it, a case of community-acquired infection was found in Japan about a month after it was first confirmed in quarantine. Assuming that moderate infections will occur, if an infected person is found, it is necessary to consider how to switch measures, such as how far to expand the investigation of close contacts and what to do with the current strict border measures. '' he pointed out.

In addition, "It is expected that contact with people will increase at year-end parties during the year-end and New Year holidays, and the movement of people will increase due to homecomings, etc., and if Omicron stocks enter under these circumstances, it will lead to rapid expansion. I think there is a possibility," he said.

Expert 3rd inoculation "It may work to suppress the severity"

In addition, Professor Tetsuo Nakayama of Kitasato University, who is familiar with viruses and vaccines, said, "Omicron strains are on the surface of cells. Even if there are 30 mutations in the spike protein of the protrusion, it is limited to 3% of the total spike protein, and it is not enough to make the vaccine completely ineffective.There is a high possibility that the effect of suppressing infection will be slightly reduced, but it will prevent aggravation. I don't think it's going to be that much less effective.By giving the third dose, you can not only raise the level of antibodies, but also the ability of the cells to attack the virus to a higher level of immunity. There is, and antibodies may escape, but immunity is induced by cells that can respond to a wide range of mutations, and maintaining it at a high level is thought to have the effect of suppressing the severity of the disease." I'm here.

Same measures as before

Is the Omicron strain a mutant virus that is more infectious and more pathogenic than the ▽ Delta strain? Is it a low mutation virus or not even in mid-December 2021?

The origin of the Omicron strain is unknown, and is believed to have originated beyond the reach of international virus surveillance.

Currently, research on infectivity and pathogenicity is underway around the world, and WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases are planning to update the information.

The measures we can take are the same as before.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing masks, disinfecting, and avoiding crowds.

Back to Table of Contents

What is the risk of the 6th wave of Omicron shares? What happened to past outbreaks? (12/14)

December 14, 2021

The Omicron strain is spreading around the world. Regarding the infection in Japan, an expert said, ``At the moment, it is too optimistic to say that the Omicron strain is becoming milder.'' I need it,” he points out.

So far, in Japan, after the "alpha strain" first found in the UK and the "delta strain" found in India were confirmed in quarantine, community-acquired infections occurred, and a few months later, a large wave of infections occurred. has caused

How fast did the infection spread after it was first confirmed in Japan?

"Alpha strains" began to expand in Kansai

First, there is the "Alpha strains" that caused the fourth wave.

The alpha strain was first confirmed in Japan's airport quarantine on December 25, 2020.

It was a case in which five men and women who had entered the country from England a few days ago were found to be infected.

About a month later, on January 18, 2021, it was revealed that three men and women in Shizuoka Prefecture who had no travel history were infected with the alpha strain, confirming community-acquired infection for the first time in Japan. was made a case.

According to an estimate by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases based on the results of PCR tests in Japan, it is believed that the alpha strain first spread in the Kansai region, pushing away the previous virus.

In Kansai, 25% will be replaced by late February 2021, 50% by mid-March, and almost completely by early May, just over four months after the first quarantine confirmation. It is said that

The alpha strain was more contagious than previous viruses, and the number of infected people increased rapidly in Osaka Prefecture and other places, putting medical care in a critical situation.

Also, in the metropolitan area of ​​1 Tokyo and 3 prefectures, 25% will be replaced by early April 2021, 50% by mid-April, and almost a month later than Kansai by early June. It is said to have been completely replaced.

"Delta strain" surpasses "alpha strain"

Next is the "delta strain" that caused the fifth wave, the largest spread of infections to date.

The Delta strain was first identified in airport quarantine in the case of a man who entered the country from India on March 28, 2021.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases said that the delta strain was detected for the first time in domestic patients on April 20, about three weeks later.

The delta strain is more infectious than the alpha strain, and according to estimates by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 25% of the metropolitan area will be replaced by 25% in early July 2021, and by mid-July It is said to have reached 50%.

Since then, it has continued to spread rapidly, and it is believed that it was almost completely replaced in early August, just over four months after it was first confirmed in quarantine.

In the Kansai region, 50% was replaced by late July, and by late August it was almost completely replaced.

In the "fifth wave" of infection in the summer of 2021, which was centered on the delta strain, the number of infected people increased sharply, and medical care became a crisis in various places, mainly in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

And the "Omicron strain", which is feared to be more infectious than the delta strain.

Since this summer, almost all of the new coronaviruses detected in the world have been replaced by the Delta strain, but in South Africa, reports of Omicron strain infections are surpassing the Delta strain.

According to the results of genetic analysis conducted in November, it is believed that three-fourths of the strains have been replaced by the Omicron strain.

On the other hand, as of December 7, WHO said, "Data are limited and it is difficult to assess whether it is likely to become severe."

The WHO said that as of December 6, all 212 confirmed cases in 18 European countries had mild or no symptoms.

On the other hand, in South Africa, the number of hospitalized patients with the new corona increased by 82% in the week from the end of November, but the percentage of those infected with the Omicron strain has not been clarified.

Expert "Take countermeasures assuming community-acquired infection"

We asked Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare about the future spread of the Omicron strain.

Professor Wada said, "Looking at the past mutation virus, a case of community infection in Japan was found about a month after it was first confirmed in quarantine. Regarding the Omicron strain, for example, infection in Japan today It would not be surprising at all to find

On top of that, ``If an infected person is found on the premise that community-acquired infection will occur in Japan, consider how to switch measures, such as how far the investigation of close contacts should be expanded and what to do with the current strict border measures. In addition, in the first case of infection so far, the personal information of the infected person has been exposed and slander has been received, so how do you convey information and how do you do it? It is also important to organize whether it will be accepted."

"End-of-year parties and homecoming may lead to rapid spread"

And regarding the speed at which the Omicron strain spreads, he said, "While the Omicron strain is said to be highly contagious, this time it is fast. It is possible that taking strong border measures at this stage will have the effect of slowing down the epidemic in Japan.It is unknown whether it will spread at the same speed as past mutations.However, year-end parties will be held around the end of the year. It is expected that contact with people will increase and the movement of people will increase due to homecomings, etc., and I think that if Omicron stocks come in, it may lead to a rapid expansion." .

In addition, Professor Wada commented on the susceptibility of the Omicron strain to aggravation, saying, "At the moment, it is a bit too optimistic to think that the Omicron strain is becoming milder. The number of hospitalized patients in South Africa is increasing. , Currently, the infection is mainly in the young generation, but it is necessary to see what the situation will be when the infection spreads further and reaches the elderly.

Back to Table of Contents

British Prime Minister ``At least one person died after being infected with the Omicron strain'' (12/14)

December 14, 2021

British Prime Minister Johnson has revealed that at least one person has died after being infected with the Omicron strain, a new coronavirus mutation virus, in the country. While some people are infected and hospitalized, the government wants to slow down the spread of infection by promoting booster vaccinations and making it mandatory to wear masks.

In the UK, the infection of the Omicron strain of the mutated virus is expanding, and a total of 4713 people have been confirmed to be infected by December 13th.

On December 13, Prime Minister Johnson told local media that at least one person had died after being infected with the Omicron strain in the country, and said, "We should be aware that the pace of the spread of the infection is fast. ”He emphasized the importance of booster vaccination.

“About 40% of infected people in London are the Omicron strain”

Furthermore, in London, the Omicron strain accounts for about 40% of the infected people, and it will soon exceed half.

In England, the majority of the population, 10 people have been hospitalized with severe illness, many of whom had received two doses of the vaccine, according to health officials.

While the number of people hospitalized is expected to increase further, the government is saying that two doses of Omicron strain are not enough and that a booster is required, and by the end of December, people aged 18 and over will need to be vaccinated. It is a policy to vaccinate all eligible persons.

The government is also tightening regulations, such as making it mandatory to wear masks at many indoor facilities, and hopes to slow the spread of infection through these measures.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron stock first confirmed infection in mainland China State media (12/13)

December 13, 2021

Chinese state media reported that a person arriving from abroad in Tianjin, China, was confirmed to be infected with a new mutated virus, the Omicron strain, on December 9. This is the first time that an infection with the Omicron strain has been confirmed in mainland China.

State-run China Central Television reported on December 13 that on December 9, people who arrived from abroad in Tianjin were tested for the new coronavirus and found to be positive. , A detailed examination revealed that he was infected with the Omicron strain.

The infected person is asymptomatic and is currently isolated in a hospital.

In China, infection with the Omicron strain has been confirmed in Hong Kong so far, but this is the first time that it has been confirmed in mainland China.

Before the Beijing Olympics in February 2022, China is becoming more wary of the spread of the new coronavirus.

Back to Table of Contents

WHO "Expansion of Omicron Strain Outpaces Delta Strain?" (12/13)

December 13, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has announced that the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus is expected to spread at a faster pace than the Delta strain in areas where community transmission is occurring. On the other hand, he said that the risk of severe illness of Omicron strain may be lower than that of Delta strain, but he is cautious that additional data is needed to make a judgment.

On December 12, WHO stated in a document published that ``In the UK, where the Delta strain is spreading, for example, the Omicron strain seems to be spreading faster than the Delta strain.'' I was.

On top of that, he analyzed, ``In areas where community-acquired infections of the Delta strain are occurring, the pace of infection of the Omicron strain seems to exceed that of the Delta strain,'' and it is possible that the Delta strain will replace the Omicron strain in the future. pointed out gender.

On the other hand, regarding the risk of severe symptoms of the Omicron strain, he pointed out that ``it is mild or asymptomatic in the range reported in Europe,'' and said that it may be lower than the Delta strain, but additional judgments were made. It shows a cautious attitude that data is necessary.

Back to Table of Contents

Do vaccines work for Omicron? Experts and latest research (12/13)

December 13, 2021

The application for the third occupational vaccination of the new coronavirus vaccine started on December 13th. There are concerns that the Omicron strain is more infectious than the mutated virus so far, but the vaccine used for the third vaccination is the vaccine made for the conventional new coronavirus that has been inoculated so far. . How should we think about the effect?

Concern about the decrease in the Omicron strain Some effect

The Omicron strain has many mutations in the spike protein on the surface of the virus, so the neutralizing antibody produced by the vaccine binds. There are concerns that it will become more difficult to use and less effective.

Nevertheless, regarding the third vaccination with the same vaccine, Seishu Taniguchi, director of the National Hospital Organization Mie Hospital, who is a member of the government's basic coping policy subcommittee, believes that the Omicron strain has a certain effect. I think it is very significant.

Director Taniguchi said, "For example, even if the virus mutates and the effect of the neutralizing antibody is reduced to one-fourth, the immune function is enhanced by boosting the vaccine, and the total amount of antibody is reduced. If the number quadruples, the number of neutralizing antibodies that bind to the virus will also increase. The increase in the overall antibody level is an advantage of the booster vaccination," he said. There are also substances that bind to , and it is said that the effect can be expected.

Long-lasting "memory" of immunity is key

Also, it is important to make the "memory" of immunity strong and long-lasting by the third inoculation, that "the virus is the target of attack". That's what I'm saying. Director Taniguchi said, "Even if a new mutant virus emerges due to multiple mutations, if you get a vaccine and build immunity properly, you can avoid becoming seriously ill. This also applies to the Omicron strain. I think it's important to continue with booster vaccinations."

The effect of not only antibodies but also immune cells that attack viruses to prevent aggravation

In addition, Professor Tetsuo Nakayama of Kitasato University, who is familiar with viruses and vaccines, said, Even if there are 30 mutations in the spike protein, it is limited to 3% of the total spike protein, and it is not enough to make the vaccine completely ineffective.There is a high possibility that the effect of suppressing infection will be slightly reduced, but it is effective in preventing aggravation. I don't think it will drop that much," he said.

On top of that, regarding the third inoculation, "In addition to raising the level of antibodies, it can also raise the level of immunity by cells that attack the virus. The virus may mutate and escape the antibodies. However, it is thought that immunity is induced by cells that can respond to a wide range of mutations, and that it can be maintained at a high level, which has the effect of suppressing the severity of the disease."

Presentation and research on ``effectiveness with the third vaccination''

Pfizer, a major pharmaceutical company in the United States, announced on December 8 that the effectiveness of the vaccine against the Omicron strain was confirmed by administering the third vaccination. Early experimental results showed that neutralizing antibody levels were 25 times higher than with two doses, and increased to the same level as with conventional viruses.

Pfizer and others used the serum of a person one month after the third vaccination to examine the value of neutralizing antibody against the Omicron strain in an experiment, and found that the conventional It is expected to be highly effective against Omicron strains, at the same level as the value of neutralizing antibodies against viruses.

In addition, even in the Omicron strain, 80% of the spike protein that immune cells recognize as the target of attack has not changed, and it is possible that even two vaccinations can prevent aggravation. It is thought that vaccination will increase the level of immune cells and lead to the prevention of aggravation.

On the other hand, the African Institute for Health Research in South Africa analyzed the blood of 12 people vaccinated with Pfizer for the effect on the Omicron strain, and found that the level of neutralizing antibodies was higher than that of the conventional virus. It was announced that it became about 1 in 40.

In addition, he also showed a trial calculation that the effect of preventing the onset was only 22.5% compared to the conventional virus.

Among them, 5 out of 6 people who were vaccinated after being infected with the new coronavirus had a relatively high effect of neutralizing antibodies, so they said, ``By receiving a third booster vaccination, etc., It is highly possible that it can enhance the action of neutralizing antibodies and prevent aggravation."

The CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States reported in its weekly report on December 10 that there were cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who had received two doses of the vaccine or who had completed the third dose. On top of that, ``Similar to previous new coronaviruses, it is thought that the symptoms are mild in those who have been vaccinated.''

Research on the effectiveness of vaccines against Omicron strains is currently underway around the world. In the future, there is a possibility that a vaccine adapted to the Omicron strain will become necessary, but at this time, it is believed that the same vaccine as before can be expected to be effective.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain 4 new infections confirmed in Japan 17 people in Japan (12/13)

December 13, 2021

From December 6th to 9th, it was newly confirmed that four men and women who entered Japan from the United States and other countries were infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona. With this, 17 people have been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Japan.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the infection with the Omicron strain was confirmed in a man in his 40s who arrived at Narita Airport on December 6th and has a history of staying in Nigeria, and on December 8th at Kansai Airport. A woman in her 20s who has stayed in the United States arrived at Narita Airport, and a man in her 30s who has stayed in Kenya has arrived at Narita Airport. men of

There are four people in total.

Four people tested positive for the new coronavirus during quarantine, so the genes of the samples were analyzed at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

Right now, they are all in medical institutions.

Three of the four had two doses of Pfizer's vaccine, and so far they have no symptoms. The remaining one person is being confirmed.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare considers all approximately 350 passengers on the same plane to be close contacts and asks them to wait at an accommodation facility for 14 days after entering the country.

With this, a total of 17 people have been confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Japan.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain 8 new infections confirmed Positive in airport quarantine inspection (12/10)

December 10, 2021

According to a government official, eight people who entered Japan in sequence were tested positive for the new coronavirus at the airport quarantine station, and then infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona. has been confirmed. As a result, 12 people have been confirmed to be infected in Japan.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “Severe disease hospitalization risk tends to be lower than Delta strain” WHO (12/10)

December 10, 2021

Regarding the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus, WHO = The World Health Organization said that early data in South Africa showed a lower risk of severe illness and hospitalization than the Delta strain, and over the next few weeks He expressed his intention to proceed with the analysis with caution.

At the WHO Regional Office for Africa's press conference on December 9, Mihigo, vaccine director, said the Omicron strain "doesn't cause very severe disease based on early data from South Africa." I was.

And, assuming that there are fewer cases of hospitalization in the intensive care unit compared to around July 2021 when the delta strain spread, the risk of aggravation and hospitalization due to the Omicron strain tends to be lower than that of the delta strain in South Africa. I pointed out that I could.

However, Mr. Mihigo said, "It will take at least two or three weeks to clarify the impact of the Omicron strain," and will continue to proceed with careful analysis.

In addition, Mr. Mihigo expressed strong concern about the delay in vaccination in Africa, and said, "Governments in African countries must do their best to spread the vaccine that has arrived." He emphasized that he will continue to provide support such as providing information to eliminate distrust of vaccines and vaccines.

Confirmed in 55 countries and regions around the world

As of 3:00 am on December 10, NHK reported that the new mutated virus, the Omicron strain, had infected 55 countries and regions around the world, including Japan. Confirmed by country and region.

▽Asia includes Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Maldives, Nepal ▽Oceania includes Australia and Fiji ▽North America includes America and Canada ▽Central and South America includes Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Argentina UK, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Czech Republic, Austria, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Ireland, Greece, Iceland, Romania, Russia, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia and ▽Middle East Infections have been confirmed in Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE = United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, South Africa, Botswana, Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Tunisia, Zambia, Uganda, Senegal, and Namibia.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Strain Possibility of Mild Disease Is “Too Early to Draw a Conclusion” WHO (12/9)

December 9, 2021

WHO = Director-General Tedros of the World Health Organization said that the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus may increase the risk of reinfection in people who have been infected with the new coronavirus in the past, and that symptoms are delta. After pointing out that it may be milder than stocks, he continued to call for vigilance, saying, "It's too early to draw conclusions."

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a press conference held in Switzerland on December 8 that "data obtained in South Africa suggest an increased risk of reinfection" regarding the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus. He pointed out that people who have been infected with the new coronavirus in the past may be at an increased risk of being infected with the Omicron strain.

I also mentioned that the symptoms caused by the Omicron strain may be milder than the Delta strain.

On top of that, Tedros pointed out that more data is needed to clearly understand the seriousness of the disease caused by the Omicron strain, saying, "It's too early to draw conclusions." , continued to call for vigilance.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain “easily infected even after vaccination” Analysis by Prof. Nishiura et al. (12/9)

December 9, 2021

Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University and others have analyzed the results of an analysis that the Omicron strain of the new mutant virus is easy to re-infect even those who have been vaccinated or those who have been infected in the past, and is rapidly expanding in South Africa. summarized.

Professor Nishiura and his group are using the website that registers the genetic information of the new coronavirus to identify the Omicron strain based on more than 200 data reported from South Africa between mid-September and the end of November 2021. We analyzed the growth momentum.

According to a report submitted to an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on December 8, in Gauteng Province, where Omicron strains are widespread, the effective reproduction number, which indicates how many people one person infects, is delta. It is 4.2 times higher than stocks, which means that it is at least twice as much even after correcting for data bias.

This value is the result of comparing the declining Delta strain and the rapidly increasing Omicron strain.It is said that the infectivity of the Omicron strain itself is not yet known, but people who were vaccinated in South Africa Analyzing based on the percentage of people who have been infected in the past, the effectiveness of immunity to prevent infection against the Omicron strain is only about 20%, and it is believed that it is rapidly expanding due to reinfection that bypasses immunity.

Professor Nishiura said, "Even in countries where vaccination is advanced, the risk of Omicron strain epidemics is high. We are paying close attention to key information such as the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of the vaccine that will be released in the future."

Back to Table of Contents

Effect of Vaccine on Omicron Strain "Improved with Third Use" Pfizer (12/9)

December 9, 2021

On December 8, Pfizer, a major pharmaceutical company in the United States, reported on the effect of the new coronavirus vaccine on the Omicron strain by inoculating it three times. We announced the initial experimental results that it increased to the same extent as. If you inoculate the vaccine three times, you can expect a high effect against the Omicron strain.

On December 8, American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer and Germany's Biontech announced the results of preliminary experiments conducted in the laboratory on the effect of the jointly developed new coronavirus vaccine on the Omicron strain.

Accordingly, the effect of neutralizing antibodies in the blood of vaccinated people to suppress the action of the virus is significantly reduced in those who received two doses of vaccination compared to the conventional virus. was doing. However, in those who received the third booster dose, the efficacy of neutralizing antibodies was 25 times greater than that of the two doses, which was similar to that against the conventional virus.

Biontech CEO Shahin said at a press conference on December 8, ``From the results of the experiment, we can expect a high effect on Omicron strains in those who received the third vaccination.''

The results of this experiment are in the early stages, and Pfizer and others will be able to see how effective it is in preventing infection and aggravation in people who have received three vaccinations in the future. I am going to investigate further.

Back to Table of Contents

What is the infectivity of the Omicron strain? What about exacerbation? What we learned (12/8)

December 8, 2021

A new mutant virus "Omicron strain" that has been confirmed in many countries and regions, including Japan. Until now, there has been no mutated virus that is more infectious than the delta strain, but it is said that it is being replaced by the Omicron strain in South Africa.

Is it highly contagious, and if infected, will it become severe? And could there be a “sixth wave” in Omicron stock? I've put together what I know so far. (As of December 8, 2021)

Is the Omicron strain more infectious than the Delta strain?

The new coronavirus has repeatedly mutated, and there have been mutated viruses that are highly infectious, highly pathogenic, and more likely to become severe if infected.

Since the summer of 2021, the delta strain has accounted for almost all new coronavirus infections worldwide.

Research institutes around the world have reported 99.8% of the delta strains in the past two months to the site "GISAID," where virus gene sequences are registered.

Until now, there has been no mutated virus that surpasses the delta strain in terms of infectivity.

However, in South Africa, where the Omicron strain was first reported, reports of infections with the Omicron strain continue to outpace the Delta strain.

According to the results of genetic analysis conducted in November, it is believed that three-fourths of the strains have been replaced by Omicron strains.

There is growing concern that it may be more infectious than the Delta strain.

When examining the genetic information, it was found that there were about 30 mutations in the "spike protein" on the surface of the new coronavirus, which is more than the mutated viruses so far.

It is thought that the virus is a stepping stone for infecting cells, and that it has mutations that make it easier to connect to cells, making it easier to infect.

There are also mutations that escape the attack of the antibodies.

For this reason, the WHO = World Health Organization has positioned the Omicron strain as the "variant strain of concern = VOC" with the highest level of caution.

Is it more widespread than currently reported?

In Europe, the virus has been detected in people who entered the country from countries where Omicron strains have not been reported, and genetic analysis has not been conducted sufficiently. Some countries do not.

For this reason, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases points out that the infection of the Omicron strain may have already spread, mainly in Africa.

Experts are concerned that there may be more infections around the world than we can see, much like when the alpha and delta strains spread.

It has been pointed out that the number of people infected with the new coronavirus is the lowest since the summer of 2020.

However, at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meetings, etc., the effect weakens as time passes after vaccination, and there are many activities in closed indoor environments where the temperature drops and the infection is easy to spread. He points out the possibility of a “sixth wave” of the spread of infection.

Experts are wary that if the Omicron strain is highly contagious, it will spread as a "sixth wave" during the season when it is already easy to spread infection, resulting in a large spread of infection.

If many people are infected, the infection spreads to those who are likely to become seriously ill.

For this reason, there is a risk that medical care, such as the 5th wave in the summer of 2021, will be in a critical state, and we are calling for continued infection control.

Currently, nearly 80% of people who have completed the vaccination are as high as 80%, and although the situation is different from the past when the infection spread, there are reports of cases in which even those who have been vaccinated are infected with the Omicron strain. It has been.

The maximum vigilance is taken until the infectivity and the susceptibility to serious illness (pathogenicity) if infected are determined.

Comparison with previous mutant viruses

What we know so far, such as infectivity and pathogenicity, is based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and public institutions in each country. I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

Infectivity

It has been pointed out that the Omicron strain may have increased infectivity, judging from the number of spike protein mutations.

As of December 7, 2021, the WHO said, ``It seems to be easier to multiply than previous mutant viruses, but it is not yet known whether this will make it easier to spread the infection.''

The WHO says South Africa, where the Omicron strain was first reported, has seen an increase in the number of cases since the second week of November, more than doubling in the last week of November compared to the previous week. I'm doing it.

Pathogenesis

As of 6 December, all 212 confirmed cases in 18 European countries had mild or no symptoms, according to WHO.

On the other hand, in South Africa, the number of hospitalized patients with the new corona increased by 82% in the week from the end of November, but the percentage of those infected with the Omicron strain has not been clarified.

On top of that, if the number of infected people increases, the number of hospitalized patients will increase, and more information is needed to grasp the whole picture.

Takashi Wakita, chairman of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Expert Group, said at a press conference on December 1, ``There were no deaths on charter flights from Wuhan last February. We should think carefully, such as looking at the situation where people are infected."

In addition, Dr. Fauci, who is the chief medical adviser of the US government, said in an interview with the US media on December 5, "It seems that the degree of seriousness is not so high," but it is too early to conclude. expressed the view that further research is needed.

Tomoya Saito, director of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases Infectious Disease Risk Management Research Center, said on NHK's "Close-up Gendai +" on December 7 that it may be a stage where people who are prone to severe illness are not infected. In addition, it may take a certain amount of time from infection to aggravation, so it will take at least two to three weeks to determine whether it is likely to become severe.

Risk of re-infection

▽ "Alpha strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is maintained, is the risk of re-infection the same as the conventional strain?

▽ "Beta strain" → The function of antibodies that suppress viruses is reduced, the function of cells that attack viruses is maintained

▽ "Gamma strain" → The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced

▽ "Delta strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is reduced

▽"Omicron stock"

→ There are also reports that the risk of reinfection may have increased

WHO says that there is a mutation that makes it easier for people with immunity due to vaccines and past infections to be reinfected.

In South Africa, a study reported that the risk of reinfection was 2.39 times higher in November than before.

However, the WHO says more research is needed to determine the risk of reinfection and the extent to which breakthrough infections occur.

Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

▽ "Alpha strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Beta strain" → No change in prevention of onset and prevention of aggravation

▽ "Gamma strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Delta strain" → No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation (There is also a report that prevention of infection and onset is reduced)

▽ "Omicron strain" → Unknown

There have been reports of cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who have completed vaccination.

Symptoms are said to be mild.

The CEO of Biontech, which developed the vaccine with Pfizer, said in an interview with American media that it is likely that Omicron strains are also effective in preventing severe disease.

Efficacy of therapeutic agents

Due to the mutation of the Omicron strain, there is concern that it may affect the "antibody cocktail therapy" administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

In addition, WHO says that drugs and steroids that prevent immune overreaction used in severely ill patients are expected to continue to be effective.

Infection route

The new coronavirus infection route is mainly small droplets floating in a closed room called "micro-droplets". Contact infection by touching etc. has also been reported.

There is a possibility that the Omicron strain may be more infectious, but it is believed to be the same route of infection.

Expert ``Don't let your guard down as it may become the source of the 6th wave''

Professor Tetsuo Nakayama of Kitasato University, who is familiar with vaccines and viruses, said, It is necessary to improve the testing system, and if it is not possible to trace close contacts, there is a possibility that it will become the cause of the sixth wave. It is not yet clear whether it will be difficult to spread.If the infection is relatively strong, it is thought that a certain number of people will become seriously ill, so we should not let our guard down."

In addition, Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, a member of the government's subcommittee on countermeasures against the new coronavirus, said, ``It is estimated that the infectivity is quite high, but it is still unclear whether it is likely to become severe. No conclusions have been reached yet, and although there have been few reports of severe illness from the Omicron strain, it is necessary to pay close attention to how severe the illness will be in the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Even if it weakens, it is unlikely that it will be completely ineffective.It will be important to steadily proceed with booster vaccinations.As for therapeutic drugs, it is unlikely that antibody cocktail therapy will be effective. So we have to wait for future data.The oral drug under development inhibits the enzyme that amplifies the virus gene and the enzyme involved in synthesis, and even the Omicron strain does not contain mutations in that part. , the effect may be maintained."

Same measures as before

Is the Omicron strain a mutant virus that is more infectious and more pathogenic than the ▽ Delta strain? Is it a low mutation virus, it can't be determined at the beginning of December 2021.

The origin of the Omicron strain is unknown, and is believed to have originated beyond the reach of international virus surveillance.

Currently, research on infectivity and pathogenicity is underway around the world, and WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases are planning to update the information.

The measures we can take are the same as before.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing masks, disinfecting, and avoiding crowds.

Back to Table of Contents

Dr. Fauci, USA Omicron strain “Severe severity not seen” (12/8)

December 8, 2021

Dr. Fauci, chief medical adviser to the U.S. government, says the Omicron strain of the new mutant virus "does not appear to be very severe," based on early information from South Africa. On the other hand, he said that he would need more time to make a final decision, saying that he would know more in the coming weeks.

Dr. Fauci said at a press conference at the White House on December 7 that although initial information obtained in South Africa suggests that the new strain of mutated Omicron virus appears to be highly contagious, it is now So far, we haven't seen much of aggravation. This may be due to the fact that many of the infected people are young people, but there seems to be little need for hospitalization and oxygen inhalation."

After that, he cautioned that ``these things are still in the early stages,'' and said, ``More details will be known in the coming weeks.'' expressed the idea that time was needed.

In addition, regarding whether there is an impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine, he said, ``We will be able to obtain the results of the analysis next week and make a judgment.''

Back to Table of Contents

Dr. Fauci, U.S. Omicron strain “Isn't the degree of severity high?” (12/6)

December 6, 2021

Dr. Fauci, chief medical adviser to the U.S. government, said in an interview with CNN television about the new mutated virus, the Omicron strain, based on information from South Africa, "So far, the degree of severity is not that high. It doesn't seem to be," he said, but he said that it was too early to make a definitive conclusion and that further research was needed.

Dr. Fauci said in an interview with CNN TV on December 5th that the new mutated virus, the Omicron strain, based on information from South Africa, said, "So far, the degree of severity does not seem to be very high. This is an encouraging sign."

On the other hand, he emphasized, "We must be very careful to judge that it will not be as severe as the delta strain. It is too early to say anything definitive." I showed the idea that it was necessary.

In addition, regarding the "recommendation to stop traveling" to countries in southern Africa issued by the US government to the public, "Currently, we have obtained a lot of information about Omicron stocks and are watching carefully. If possible, We want to be able to lift it within a reasonable period of time."

Back to Table of Contents

Confirmation of third case of Omicron strain in Japan, male in his 30s with a history of staying in Italy (12/6)

December 6, 2021

It was newly confirmed that a man who entered Japan on December 1st and had a history of staying in Italy was infected with a new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona.

This is the third confirmed case of infection in Japan.

The infection was confirmed in a man in his 30s who had a history of staying in Italy.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not disclose his nationality.

When I entered Japan on December 1st, I was tested for the new coronavirus at the quarantine station at Haneda Airport and had a positive reaction, so I was analyzing the gene of the sample at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

As a result, infection with the Omicron strain was confirmed.

After entering the country, the man was in an accommodation facility designated by quarantine, but currently has no symptoms and is planning to be hospitalized at a medical institution soon.

Also, in July and August 2021, he was vaccinated against Moderna.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare considers all 41 passengers on the same plane to be close contacts and asks them to wait at an accommodation facility for 14 days after entering the country.

This is the third confirmed case of infection in Japan so far, following a diplomat who entered the country from Namibia at the end of November and a man who entered the country from Peru.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno ``Continued thorough appropriate infection prevention measures''

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference in the afternoon, A report from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said that the National Institute of Infectious Diseases performed a genome test on a positive sample and confirmed that it was the Omicron strain.We have received a report that it is a man in his 30s. said.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said that he had already known about the man's companion and the people who were in the seat nearby on the plane, and the man's nationality was ``We will publish only information that will help prevent the spread of infection. I didn't make it clear.

And he said, "We will continue to strengthen border measures and monitor by strengthening the implementation of genome analysis, and we would like to thoroughly implement appropriate infection prevention measures."

Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto "41 people on the plane were close contacts"

Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto held a temporary press conference, saying, "Because the test at the time of entry was confirmed to be positive for corona, quarantine He was admitted to an accommodation facility and is currently being transported to a medical institution.There were 41 other people on board the flight that the positive person was on, but they are all treated as close contacts and will continue to be treated as close contacts. In cooperation with local governments, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare will conduct thorough health observations."

Furthermore, Minister Goto reiterated that in addition to border control measures against the "Omicron strain," the domestic inspection system was being strengthened, and that "if infection is confirmed, an active epidemiological survey will be conducted." We will do our best to contain it in Japan," he said.

Back to Table of Contents

Did the Omicron strain overlap with the Delta strain and other strains of viruses?(12/5)

December 5, 2021

Experts believe that the Omicron strain of the new coronavirus appeared due to the overlap of many mutations in a virus of a different strain than the Delta strain in areas where genetic analysis has not been performed sufficiently. The gene involved in the propagation of the virus is also mutated, and it is necessary to investigate in detail whether it is likely to become severe when infected.

Mutation of "spike protein" about three times that of the delta strain, etc.

Professor Kenjiro Kozaki's group at Keio University School of Medicine collected data on the genetic information of viruses registered by research institutes around the world. We are conducting research to analyze the origin, changes, and effects of mutated viruses.

When Professor Kozaki analyzed the changes in the virus, it is thought that the Omicron strain appeared due to the overlap of many mutations in a virus of a strain different from the alpha and delta strains in areas where genetic analysis has not been performed sufficiently. It has not been detected until recently, and it is unknown where it originated.

In addition, the Omicron strain has about 30 mutations in the "spike protein" on the surface that serves as a foothold for infection, which is about three times that of the Delta strain, and an enzyme necessary for the virus to proliferate. There are also mutations in the genes involved, and it is necessary to investigate in detail whether the infection will become severe or remain mild.

Professor Kozaki said, ``The Omicron strain was first reported by a research institute in South Africa, but there is data indicating that there was a community infection in Europe earlier, and the origin is not clear. Differences from other mutant viruses It is necessary to analyze what kind of effect it has on pathogenicity because there are many."

Back to Table of Contents

What is the infectivity and vaccine efficacy of the Omicron strain? What We Know Now (12/3)

December 3, 2021

Since this summer, almost all new coronaviruses detected in the world have become highly infectious "delta strains". Even in Japan, after the “fifth wave”, it was almost completely replaced by delta stocks. "Omicron strain" suddenly appeared there. Until now, there has been no mutated virus that is more infectious than the delta strain, but it is said that it is being replaced by the Omicron strain in South Africa. Is it the most infectious mutated virus ever, or could there be a "sixth wave" in the Omicron strain? I've put together what I know so far.

Is the Omicron strain more infectious than the Delta strain?

The new coronavirus has repeatedly mutated, and there have been mutated viruses that are highly infectious, highly pathogenic, and more likely to become severe if infected.

Among them, since this summer, the delta strain has accounted for almost all of the new coronavirus infections in the world.

In the past two months, 99.8% of the reports from research institutes around the world to the site "GISAID", where the gene sequences of viruses are registered, were delta strains.

At one point, it was thought that infections with the Lambda and Mu strains reported from South America would spread, but in the end, the Delta strain remains dominant in South America as well.

Until now, no mutated virus has been found to overwhelm the Delta strain with its infectivity.

However, in South Africa, where the Omicron strain was first reported, reports of infections with the Omicron strain continue to outpace the Delta strain.

There is growing concern that it may be more infectious than the Delta strain.

Furthermore, when examining the genetic information, it was found that there were about 30 mutations in the spike protein on the surface of the new coronavirus, which is more than the previous mutant viruses.

It is said that there is a possibility that the virus may become more susceptible to infection as it is a stepping stone when infecting cells.

There are also mutations that escape the attack of the antibodies.

For this reason, the WHO = World Health Organization has positioned the Omicron strain as the "variant strain of concern = VOC" with the highest level of caution.

Is it more widespread than currently reported

In Europe, the virus has been detected in people who entered the country from countries where Omicron strains have not been reported, and genetic analysis has not been conducted sufficiently. Some countries do not.

For this reason, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases points out that the infection of the Omicron strain may have already spread, mainly in Africa.

Experts are concerned that there may be more infections around the world than we can see, much like when the alpha and delta strains spread.

It has been pointed out that the number of people infected with the new coronavirus is the lowest since the summer of 2020.

However, at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meetings, etc., the effect weakens as time passes after vaccination, and there are many activities in closed indoor environments where the temperature drops and the infection is easy to spread. He points out the possibility of a “sixth wave” of the spread of infection.

Experts are wary that if the Omicron strain is highly contagious, it will spread as a "sixth wave" during the season when it is already easy to spread infection, resulting in a large spread of infection.

If many people are infected, the infection spreads to those who are likely to become seriously ill.

For this reason, it is said that the medical care experienced in the "5th wave" of this summer may be in a critical state, and we are calling for continued infection control.

Currently, 77% of people have completed the vaccination, so the situation is different from the past when the infection spread, but there are reports of cases in which even people who have been vaccinated are infected with the Omicron strain. It has been.

The maximum vigilance has been taken until the infectivity and the likelihood of becoming seriously ill if infected are determined.

Comparison with previous mutant viruses

What we know so far, such as infectivity and pathogenicity, is based on information from WHO, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and public institutions in each country. I summarized it in the form of comparing it with other "mutant strains of concern = VOC".

Infectivity

It has been pointed out that the Omicron strain may have increased infectivity, judging from the number of spike protein mutations.

However, as of November 30, 2021, WHO says, ``There is no direct scientific evidence that the infectivity is increasing.''

Virulence

Regarding the Omicron strain, reports have been issued one after another that there have been no deaths from the Omicron strain, and there are many cases of mild illness. are reviewing clinical outcome data."

Takashi Wakita, chairman of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Experts' Meeting, said, "There were no deaths on charter flights from Wuhan in February last year. We should think carefully about what we see,” he said.

Risk of re-infection

▽ "Alpha strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is maintained, is the risk of re-infection the same as the conventional strain?

▽ "Beta strain" → Antibodies that suppress the virus are less effective. Maintaining the functions of cells that attack viruses

▽ "Gamma strain" → The function of the antibody that suppresses the virus is slightly reduced

▽ "Delta strain" → Antibody function to suppress the virus is reduced

▽ "Omicron strain" → There is a report that the risk of reinfection may be increased

Vaccine effect (Pfizer Moderna's mRNA vaccine)

▽ "Alpha strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Beta strain" → No change in prevention of onset and prevention of aggravation

▽ "Gamma strain" → No change in prevention of infection, onset, and aggravation

▽ "Delta strain" → No change in prevention of infection, prevention of onset, and prevention of aggravation (There is also a report that prevention of infection and onset is reduced)

▽ "Omicron strain" → Unknown

There have been reports of cases of infection with the Omicron strain even in people who have completed vaccination. Symptoms are said to be mild.

Efficacy of therapeutic agents

Due to the mutation of the Omicron strain, there is concern that it may affect the "antibody cocktail therapy" administered early in the infection to prevent aggravation.

On the other hand, it is believed that oral medicines that prevent the proliferation of viruses will not be affected.

Infection route

The new coronavirus infection route is mainly small droplets floating in a closed room called "micro-droplets". Contact infection by touching etc. has also been reported.

There is a possibility that the Omicron strain may be more infectious, but it is believed to be the same route of infection.

Expert ``Don't let your guard down as it may become the source of the 6th wave''

Prof. In addition to mutations in the "alpha strain", there are also mutations in the "beta strain" that evade antibody attacks, and I think they basically have a tendency to escape from vaccine-induced antibodies. Given that it is a virus that is spreading, I think it is a virus that is concerned about the spread of infection.We have to think about it on the premise that the Omicron strain is also in Japan.It is necessary to improve the inspection system, and it is not possible to trace close contacts. There is also the possibility that this could lead to a sixth wave.As for pathogenicity, it is not yet clear whether it is difficult for people to become seriously ill even if they are infected. It is thought that it will come out, so we must not let our guard down."

In addition, Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, a member of the government's subcommittee on countermeasures against the new coronavirus, said, ``It is estimated that the infectivity is quite high, but it is still unclear whether it is likely to become severe. No conclusions have been reached yet, and although there have been few reports of severe illness from the Omicron strain, it is necessary to pay close attention to how severe the illness will be in the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Even if it weakens, it is unlikely that it will be completely ineffective.It will be important to steadily proceed with booster vaccinations.As for therapeutic drugs, it is unlikely that antibody cocktail therapy will be effective. So we have to wait for future data.The oral drug under development inhibits the enzyme that amplifies the virus gene and the enzyme involved in synthesis, and even the Omicron strain does not contain mutations in that part. , the effect may be maintained."

Same measures as before

Is the Omicron strain a mutant virus that is more infectious and more pathogenic than the ▽ Delta strain? Is it a low mutation virus, it can't be determined at the beginning of December 2021.

Research on the infectivity and pathogenicity of the Omicron strain is underway around the world, and WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases are planning to update the information.

The measures we can take are the same as before.

In addition to promoting vaccination, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also calls for continuing basic measures such as wearing masks, disinfecting, and avoiding crowds.

Back to Table of Contents

Distinguish the Omicron strain Thorough monitoring with Tokyo's own PCR test (12/3)

December 3, 2021

In response to the confirmation of the infection of the new mutant virus, the Omicron strain, in Japan, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government compiled emergency measures, and conducted a PCR test to distinguish the Omicron strain, which was established independently by the city. We will monitor closely.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government held a crisis management meeting on the afternoon of December 3rd, and in response to the confirmation of the infection of the new mutated virus, the Omicron strain, in Japan, we have compiled an emergency response plan for the city.

Accordingly, we will establish a PCR test method unique to the city to determine whether there are major mutations that are characteristic of the Omicron strain, and will start testing at the Tokyo Health and Safety Research Center from December 3rd. I'm doing it.

Since this test will give results in less than a day, genetic analysis will be performed in parallel to thoroughly monitor whether the infection spreads in the city.

In addition, at the meeting, it was reported that there were 85 people in Tokyo who had been in close contact with two people who had been confirmed to be infected in Japan, and 61 of them had entered an accommodation facility as of December 2nd. I was.

The metropolitan government will conduct a PCR test once every two days and continue health observations, including those who are waiting at home without entering an accommodation facility.

In addition, even if there is a close contact with a new infected person, it is a policy to request that they enter an accommodation facility, and the facility will be doubled to about 3,400 rooms.

Furthermore, in order to respond to concerns about Omicron stock, we will set up a consultation desk for Tokyo residents from December 3rd.

Call 0570-550-571 daily from 9am to 10pm.

Examining mutations in the "spike protein" gene

The PCR test that distinguishes Omicron strains independently established by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has This is a method to check whether there are mutations specific to the Omicron strain.

According to the "Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Safety Research Center", a research institute in Tokyo that conducts tests for the new coronavirus, the Omicron strain has about 30 mutations in the "spike protein".

This time, in the test method that we have established independently, we check whether there are major mutations such as "E484A" among them, and determine whether it is an Omicron strain.

The city wants to perform this PCR test on as many of the samples that are positive for the new corona in Tokyo as possible.

Expert "If there is a rapid spread, quickly strengthen restrictions on movement, etc." Specially Appointed Professor Mitsuo Kaku of the University of Pharmaceutical Sciences said at a meeting on December 3 that in the future, if there are signs of a rapid spread of infection, we will promptly take measures such as strengthening the medical care system and strengthening restrictions on movement. I have expressed my opinion that it is necessary.

In this, Project Professor Kaku said, "It has been pointed out that the Omicron strain may weaken the vaccine effect, but it does not completely eliminate the effect.At present, the vaccine is not effective in preventing aggravation I think it is possible," he said.

In addition, "Even with the Omicron strain, it is very important to thoroughly implement basic infection prevention measures, to steadily promote vaccination and early administration of antibody drugs, and to utilize oral drugs that will come out in the future. '' he pointed out.

And to the city, ``If there are signs of a rapid spread of infection, it is desirable to take swift and flexible measures, such as strengthening the medical care system and strengthening movement restrictions.The emergence of Omicron stocks. So, tensions are rising in Japan and in Tokyo, but it's important to stay calm, do what you need to do without panicking, and take a comprehensive response."

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Stock How to Prepare? What can you do now? (12/2)

December 2, 2021

The Omicron strain, which has been reported to be infected all over the world. As compiled by NHK at 8:30 pm on December 2nd, it has been confirmed in 28 countries and regions around the world, including Japan.

Border measures, and concerns about the spread of infection. We've compiled key moves and expert analysis.

1.Today's movement Policy change due to waterfront measures

Figure skating Grand Prix final will be canceled

The Japan Skating Federation will start December 2nd and December 9th in Osaka It has been announced that the Grand Prix Final, an international figure skating competition scheduled to be held in Osaka Prefecture, will be cancelled.

Regarding the tournament, the Japanese government has strengthened border measures such as suspending new entry of foreigners in principle due to the influence of Omicron stock. I've been

As a result, the Japan Skating Federation has announced that it will cancel the figure skating Grand Prix Final, which was scheduled to be held from December 9th to 12th.

The Grand Prix Final is an international tournament in which top-performing players from the Grand Prix series participate, and is also involved in the selection of the Japanese national team for the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

The 2020 tournament was canceled due to the spread of the new coronavirus, and this year, for the first time in two years, Nathan Chen of the United States, who has won three consecutive world championships in Kadoma City, Osaka Prefecture, has won the women's singles. It was scheduled to be held with the participation of top overseas players such as Russia's Kamila Valieva, who marked the world's highest score this season.

Withdrawal of request to suspend new reservations for international flights

On the other hand, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, which had requested airlines to suspend new reservations on international flights in order to strengthen border measures, announced on December 2nd. , withdrew this request as it caused some confusion, and notified the airlines again to give due consideration to the return demand of Japanese people.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will strengthen border measures against the spread of Omicron strains, and will ask airlines to suspend new reservations for all international flights arriving in Japan for one month until the end of December.November I requested on the 29th.

Japanese who are overseas are also included in the request to suspend new reservations, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said that it is an emergency evacuation preventive measure that Japanese who have not made reservations will not be able to return home. However, there were voices of opposition from airline officials, who said that the response was "too strict," and confusion spread among Japanese who were planning to return from overseas. I was.

Regarding this, Prime Minister Kishida clarified that he had instructed to give due consideration to the return demand of Japanese people, saying, "It has caused confusion to some people," and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism received such instructions. , on December 2, we once again notified the airlines to withdraw the request to suspend reservations and give due consideration to the return demand of Japanese people.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will coordinate specific responses with airline companies in the future, and the request to strengthen border measures has forced a policy change in three days.

To review the interval of the third vaccination

Regarding the third vaccination, which is the key to countermeasures, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference in the morning, ``In principle, the interval between vaccinations should be at least eight months. However, from the perspective of preventing the spread of infection, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare recently indicated exceptional handling in the event of clusters occurring at medical institutions.

On top of that, ``Based on future changes in the infection situation, the preparation status of local governments, the supply of vaccines, etc., we will further consider the scope of vaccination without waiting for eight months if necessary. I would like to collect information on the characteristics of the Omicron strain virus and the effects of vaccines."

2.Expert "Don't let your guard down" "It is important to continue infection control"

Professor Nakayama points out the need to further inoculate

About the Omicron strain , what do the experts see?

Professor Tetsuo Nakayama of Kitasato University, who is familiar with vaccines and viruses, said, "Although genetic information data has been published, in addition to mutations in the highly infectious 'alpha strain', there is also a 'beta strain' that escapes antibody attacks. There is also a mutation of ", and I think it basically has a tendency to escape from the antibodies induced by the vaccine. Considering that the infection is actually spreading, it is a virus that is concerned about the spread of infection. I think," he said.

Also, regarding vaccines, ``The current vaccine may be less effective in suppressing the severity of the disease. It's not something that can't be done," and pointed out the need to promote further vaccinations, including the third vaccination.

On the other hand, regarding the fact that many countries continue to report that there are many mild cases, he said, ``We won't know what mutations are involved in changes in pathogenicity until we see the results of future experiments. We haven't gathered enough people yet, so it's not yet clear whether it's low pathogenicity makes it difficult for people to become seriously ill if infected. It's possible, so don't let your guard down."

Regarding the countermeasures required now, Professor Nakayama said, "Both the alpha strain and the delta strain were already in Japan when they were found in quarantine, so we have to think about it on the premise that the Omicron strain is also inside. It is important to set up a testing system and thoroughly investigate infected people and their surroundings through active epidemiological surveys to prevent the spread of infection.In addition, it is important to take basic infection control measures on a daily basis, such as wearing a mask and avoiding the three Cs. It is necessary to be thorough from

Professor Wada "The impact will be visible in about two weeks"

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting, said, "Comparing Omicron stocks to Delta stocks In the next two weeks or so, I think we will be able to see what kind of impact it will have on our lives.In particular, we will see how severe the disease will be, how contagious it is, and whether the vaccine will work. , In some cases, it is necessary to show how to implement border measures for immigration."

On top of that, he points out that, regarding the current border measures, it is important to think of border measures as 'buying time' and to prepare for this mutated virus in the meantime.

As for how we should prepare for the Omicron strain, Professor Koji Wada said, "Since the infection is relatively contained in Japan, we will continue to keep calm while taking basic infection control measures. If you are feeling unwell, try not to go outside as much as possible to get tested, and if you have not yet received two doses of the vaccine, please take this opportunity to do so. It's important,' he said.

Furthermore, regarding daily measures, he said, ``There is no need to be overly anxious at this stage, but it is important to continue infection control. It's important to spend the beginning of December by ventilating as much as possible and keeping it as small as possible while being careful even in situations where people gather." .

3. How to prepare for the medical field

Doctors at university hospitals who continue to treat new coronavirus patients have not responded to the coronavirus so far, even though the number of infections has decreased. We also provide guidance to local medical institutions to learn how to treat patients.

However, there is a growing sense of crisis in the current situation where the number of participating medical institutions is not spreading as expected due to the decrease in infection.

Professor Hideaki Oka of the Department of Infectious Diseases at the Saitama Medical University General Medical Center in Kawagoe City is leading the effort.

In the 5th wave, more than 40 beds were filled up, and there were many cases in which hospitalization was forced to be refused. We provide guidance to local clinics.

On this day, the clinic that received the instruction had tested fever patients, but did not participate in the treatment of corona patients.

In the future, we plan to respond to patients who are recuperating at home, and Professor Oka was telling us how to determine if the patient is at high risk of becoming severe.

Confirm the presence or absence of vaccination, and if you are undergoing cancer treatment or are using drugs that suppress immunity for treatment of another disease, there is a risk of aggravation even after vaccination. I called attention.

Then, if the fever did not go down after about a week from the onset, he suspected "pneumonia" and asked him to adjust so that he could be hospitalized even if he did not have subjective symptoms such as shortness of breath.

The nurse who participated said, "I want to proceed with preparations for emergencies while being fearful."

Efforts to expand the number of medical institutions participating in corona treatment. Since the number of infections has decreased, the number of requests has decreased, and Professor Oka is concerned about the current situation where the number of participating medical institutions has not spread as expected.

``We can't make it in time after it expands. Start preparing now.'' However, I think that a new wave will occur.The training is not progressing as expected, as it is said, ``If you are thirsty, you will forget the heat.'' I want it," he said.

Back to Table of Contents

Confirmation of second domestic infection with "Omicron strain" Male in his 20s entering the country from Peru (12/1)

December 1, 2021

It was confirmed that a man who entered the country from Peru in South America was infected with a new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona. This is the second person confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Japan.

The infection was confirmed in a man in his 20s.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare does not disclose nationality because it is unnecessary information for taking measures against infection.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the man arrived at Narita Airport on November 27th from Peru via Doha, the capital of Qatar in the Middle East. I was analyzing the genes of samples in the laboratory.

As a result, it was confirmed that he was infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" confirmed in South Africa.

This is the second person confirmed to be infected with the Omicron strain in Japan.

At first, the man had no symptoms, but then complained of fever and sore throat, and is now hospitalized at a medical institution.

The man received his second dose of the Pfizer vaccine in October 2021.

There were 114 other passengers on the same plane, all of whom tested negative at the quarantine station.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare considers all 114 people to be close contacts and asks them to wait at accommodation facilities for 14 days after entering Japan, and continues to check their health conditions and whereabouts.

Back to Table of Contents

"Omicron stock" New entry of foreigners, principle suspension Acceptance site (11/30)

November 30, 2021

In response to the spread of the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" in various countries, the government has suspended new entry of foreigners in principle from November 30th for all countries and regions around the world. Did. In response to the temporary relaxation of immigration restrictions from November 8, sites throughout the country that have been preparing to accept them are busy responding.

“Gateway to Japan” International Airport Terminal Quiet

In Terminal 3, where international flights arrive and depart at Haneda Airport, you can see foreigners coming to Japan for work until November 29th. However, on November 30th, it is quiet with only foreigners who have families in Japan or who are working in Japan coming and going.

An American man working in the military said, ``At the airport and on the plane, he wore a mask and looked like he always did. I don't really understand the situation of the mutated virus.I think it's inevitable that the government will do it for the safety of people living in Japan."

A Japanese man who lived in the United States and temporarily returned to Japan said, "There were many Japanese people on board, and there were almost no foreigners. There were times when I could not return to the United States due to the influence of Corona. I think it would be good if it weren't for that situation," he said.

Also, at Narita Airport, the first flight from Manila arrived at around 11:30 am, but no new foreigners were seen.

At the airport quarantine, we asked Japanese returning home whether they had a history of staying in South Africa or the United Kingdom, where the "Omicron strain" was confirmed.

"Valuable Strength" Technical Intern Trainees Couldn't Enter Japan and Consulted with a Temporary Staffing Company

Agricultural machinery parts manufacturer in Inashiki City, Ibaraki Prefecture, has been accepting technical intern trainees from Vietnam for about eight years. I accept.

In November, new entry of foreigners was partially resumed, so the company proceeded with procedures such as visas for technical intern trainees, and 12 new people were scheduled to enter the country in late December. However, it means that the time to enter the country is no longer predictable.

According to the company, the technical intern trainees have become a valuable force in the field, and the work of the 12 people scheduled to enter the country has already been decided, so they consulted with a temporary agency to secure replacement personnel. being chased by

Rikitaka Sato, who is in charge of human resources at agricultural machinery parts manufacturer STN, said, "I understand the government's policy not to bring in new mutated viruses, so I have no choice but to follow it. Human traffic will be possible. I hope the time will come," he said.

Nursing care facilities with a shortage of workers "I'll just do my best while waiting..." The outlook for the day is gone, and we are being chased by response.

At a special nursing home in Iwatsuki Ward, Saitama City, in response to the temporary relaxation of immigration restrictions from November 8th, one Mongolian woman with a status of residence as a "specified skilled worker" I was planning to accept it in the end of the year, and I was preparing for it.

In addition to securing plane tickets and applying for visas at the facility, they had prepared a room in the facility to spend the waiting period after entering the country, but it is said that the prospect of coming to Japan has disappeared. That's it.

Since the woman had already retired from her local job when she came to Japan in December, the person in charge of the facility sent her a message on SNS, saying that she could not come to Japan. And so on.

This facility plans to accept a total of four women and technical interns by the spring of next year, and is concerned about the impact of the immigration suspension of foreigners.

Koji Arai, General Manager of "Special Elderly Nursing Home Shirasagi" said, "It's a pity that we have returned to the beginning. It's an industry with a shortage of workers, but we have no choice but to wait and do our best. The life of a woman who was planning to come to Japan. I want to think about face and mental support."

International students "lose motivation" At universities around the world...

At Yokohama City University this year, eight international students from China, South Korea, etc. who entered the undergraduate or graduate school were unable to enter the country. I am still taking classes online.

In response to the conditional admission of new international students on November 8th, the university held an online orientation for eight people last week and explained the schedule for acceptance after next year. I just did.

Universities are puzzled by the lack of prospects for accepting international students in the future.

In addition, since August 2021, 22 students have studied abroad at overseas universities with which we have an exchange study agreement, but we are concerned about the impact on the agreement as it continues to be unable to accept international students. I'm here.

Mr. Akiko Moritani, head of the Global Promotion Office at Yokohama City University, said, "It's unfortunate that Yasaki's immigration suspension, which I thought could be resumed, is unavoidable for border control. I would like to try to maintain a relationship with."

In response to the resumption of acceptance of international students, Toyo University was also applying for about 80 international students who had been unable to enter Japan.

Since the new entry of foreigners has been suspended in principle, the university will connect online with international students from Russia, Indonesia, etc. who are planning to enter the country from January to March 2022 on November 30, He once again promised to continue his support, stating that he would be in touch as soon as he knew what the future course of action would be.

In response to this, an international student said, ``Some countries are resuming acceptance, and I feel very disadvantaged. Our lives depend on the Japanese government,” and “I booked three flights and canceled them all three times.

Domestic and international sports competitions

JOC President Yamashita said at a regular press conference held in Tokyo on November 30th that the Grand Prix of figure skating, which will begin in Osaka Prefecture on December 9th. Regarding the response to future international competitions scheduled in Japan, such as the final, he only stated, "What will happen to the competition itself? At this stage, we do not have information on how the players will respond."

Furthermore, regarding the impact on the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics in February 2022, he said, "We will cooperate while sharing information with athletes and sports organizations." While sharing information, I showed my thoughts on how to respond.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain infected person confirmed in Japan for the first time Male in his 30s entering from Namibia (11/30)

November 30, 2021

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno confirmed at a press conference on the afternoon of November 30 that a man in his 30s who had entered the country from Namibia in southern Africa had been infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona. made it clear that

This is the first time that an infected person with the Omicron strain has been confirmed in Japan.

“The immigrant will be quarantined at a medical institution”

In this, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said, “Regarding immigrants from Namibia, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases conducted a genome analysis of positive samples. , There was a report from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare that it was confirmed to be the Omicron strain.” A man in his 30s who came from Namibia in southern Africa was infected with the new mutated virus “Omicron strain” of the new corona. It was confirmed that

On top of that, ``This is the first time that the Omicron strain has been confirmed in Japan. Currently, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has reported that the immigrant is being isolated at a medical institution.A companion of an infected person, or We are already aware of people who are suspected of being in close contact, such as sitting next to them on an airplane, and have contacted the public health center."

And Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno announced that he will discuss the response with the relevant ministers at the Prime Minister's Office from 5:00 pm on November 30th.

Furthermore, ``This person was quarantined at the airport before entering Japan and was found to be positive for the new corona, and was immediately isolated. We will continue to strengthen border measures and monitor by strengthening genome analysis, and we would like to thoroughly implement infection prevention measures."

What is the Omicron strain?

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the Omicron strain is the most mutated virus in the "spike protein" on the surface of the virus. A lot, about 30 mutations have been found, and in addition to this, part of the gene is missing.

The "spike protein" is the first part that binds when entering human cells, and is marked by antibodies from vaccines.

For these reasons, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases is strongly concerned about increased infectivity, a significant decrease in the effectiveness of vaccines, and an increased risk of reinfection.

However, there is no experimental data at the moment, and epidemiological information is not sufficient. It is necessary to keep an eye on such matters.

Few days to analyze the Omicron strain

When examining whether a new mutated virus such as the Omicron strain among the new coronaviruses is infected, a special device is used to It is necessary to analyze the information in detail, and it is said that it will take several days for the results to come out.

Even when alpha strains and delta strains first appeared, it took time to find out which mutant virus was infected, because it required analysis of genetic information. The laboratory has developed a reagent to detect the mutations characteristic of the mutant virus simply by applying it to a PCR test, and has been able to detect it in a few hours.

Reagents have been distributed to public health laboratories nationwide, and it has become possible to rapidly detect known mutant viruses in each region, but reagents for Omicron strains have not yet been developed. yeah.

Omicron strain confirmed in 17 countries and regions around the world (as of 16:00 on November 30)

As of 4:00 pm on November 30, NHK compiled a new mutant virus, Omicron. Strain infections have been confirmed in 17 countries and territories worldwide.

Apart from Japan, ▽Africa is South Africa and Botswana, ▽Europe is England, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Czech Republic, Austria, Sweden, Spain, ▽Middle East Israel, ▽Asia is Hong Kong, ▽Oceania , Australia, ▽North America, and Canada, respectively.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain infection confirmed in 16 countries and regions around the world (11/30)

November 30, 2021

As summarized by NHK at 3:30 am on November 30, infection with the new mutant virus "Omicron strain" has been confirmed in 16 countries and regions around the world.

▽In Africa, South Africa and Botswana. ▽In Europe, UK, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Czech Republic, Austria, Sweden and Spain. ▽ In the Middle East, Israel. ▽In Asia, Hong Kong. ▽ In Oceania, Australia. ▽ In North America, Canada has been confirmed to be infected.

British additional vaccinations for all over 18 years old

In response to the confirmation of infection with the "Omicron strain" in the country, the British government announced on November 29th that 40 We have clarified the policy of targeting all people over the age of 18 for additional vaccinations, which had been for people over the age of 18.

In addition, until now, the additional inoculation was supposed to be at an interval of 6 months from the second inoculation, but it is said that the interval will be shortened to 3 months.

In the UK, the number of new infections continues to exceed 40,000 a day, but most of the restrictions have been lifted in England, which accounts for the majority of the population.

So far, the government has been reluctant to take additional measures such as the obligation to wear a mask, saying that the severity of the disease has been suppressed by the effect of the vaccine, but it was forced to review the strategy in front of the new mutant strain. Inevitably, we are launching measures such as strengthening border measures one after another.

Mayor of New York Calls for Wearing Masks Indoors

In response to the spread of the new mutated virus "Omicron strain", Mayor de Blasio of New York City, USA, held a press conference on November 29. , and once again strongly called on citizens to wear masks indoors, including restaurants and retail stores.

Accordingly, wearing a mask was called for in indoor public places such as grocery stores, offices and lobbies in buildings, and retail stores.

In addition, we are calling on those who have been vaccinated to wear it.

In August 2021, New York City recommended wearing a mask indoors due to the spread of the delta strain of the mutated virus. Shape.

On the other hand, Mayor de Blasio was asked at a press conference if he would not make it mandatory to wear a mask to strengthen the measures, but he said, "We need more data to decide if that's the right way to go." ”He said that he would like to determine more detailed information about the mutated virus and consider how to deal with it.

Switzerland Winter Universiade Canceled

Due to the influence of the newly confirmed mutated virus "Omicron strain", the winter that was scheduled to be held in Switzerland in December, which is said to be the student Olympics Universiade has been canceled.

The 2021 Winter Universiade was scheduled to take place in Lucerne in central Switzerland from December 11th to 21st, but the International University Sports Federation announced on November 29th that it would be cancelled.

The reasons for the cancellation include immigration restrictions by the Swiss authorities to prevent the spread of the new mutated virus "Omicron strain".

The tournament was originally scheduled to be held in January 2021, but was postponed to December due to the influence of the new coronavirus, and more than 70 athletes from Japan were scheduled to participate in six sports.

The organizers say, "It's a great shame that we can't hold a great tournament."

UN Secretary-General ``Deeply Concerned about the Isolation of Southern African Countries''

Regarding "Omicron Strains", several countries have begun restricting entry from southern Africa. Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement on 29 November that he was "deeply concerned about the isolation of countries in southern Africa".

Secretary-General Guterres said that it has been pointed out for a long time that areas with low vaccination rates could become hotbeds for mutated viruses, saying, ``We cannot blame Africans for their lack of vaccine supply. I can't."

In addition, we called on each country to consider appropriate and effective measures, such as repeated inspections of travelers, to enable travel with these countries.

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron Strain G7 Urgent Health Ministers' Meeting Joint Statement on Coordination, etc. (11/30)

November 30, 2021

While the new mutated virus of the new corona confirmed in South Africa is spreading in Europe and elsewhere, the G7 = seven major countries held an emergency health ministers' meeting on the night of November 29, Japan time. Then, a joint statement was compiled, including the plan to continue working together to respond to the situation.

While the infection of the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona confirmed in South Africa spreads not only in southern Africa but all over the world, the G7 = 7 major countries on November 29, Japan time. An emergency Health Ministers' Meeting was held online at 9:30 p.m.

Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto explained that although no infection with the Omicron strain has been confirmed in Japan so far, monitoring is being conducted while strengthening the implementation of virus genome analysis along with border measures. .

Then, at the meeting, it was decided that the WHO would cooperate with international organizations such as the World Health Organization, and that G7 countries would continue to work together to respond and promote research and development. A joint statement was compiled that included the holding of the meeting.

After this, Minister Goto told reporters, "There are still many things we do not know, including the strength and infectivity of new mutant strains, and the effects of vaccines and therapeutic drugs, but G7 countries will share information and respond. It means a lot,” he said.

United Kingdom G7 Presidency Joint Statement

At the emergency meeting of health ministers held online by the G7 on November 29, the United Kingdom presidency issued a joint statement.

According to this, the G7 will work closely with international organizations such as the WHO = World Health Organization and other countries in the coming weeks to share information and respond.

In addition, it is said that it is important to continue to ensure access to vaccines, and that it will support vaccination systems and research and development in each country.

And in December, we plan to hold another health ministers' meeting to discuss our response.

England's Minister of Health Javid praised "South Africa identified a new mutated virus and quickly shared information", and in response to the mutated virus, each country quickly shared its findings with the international community. emphasized that it is important to

South African Health Minister ``Disappointed by travel restrictions''

South African Health Minister Pahla attended a special meeting of the WHO Annual General Assembly on November 29 online. , said that "a lot is still unknown" about Omicron's stock, and said he was "disappointed" that several countries had begun restricting immigration from southern Africa. Did.

And immediately lifted travel restrictions for each country, saying, ``It is discriminatory to restrict travel only from southern Africa, even though we do not restrict travel from other countries where Omicron strains have been confirmed.'' I asked you to

Back to Table of Contents

Omicron strain "Scientists around the world continue to investigate" WHO Director-General (11/29)

November 29, 2021

Regarding the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new coronavirus, WHO = World Health Organization Secretary-General Tedros said that he does not yet know the impact on the infectivity and the effectiveness of vaccines. Scientists continue to investigate.

At the WHO, a special session of the Annual General Assembly, which started on November 29, is discussing preparations for future pandemics.

In this, Director-General Tedros said, ``Is the Omicron strain, which WHO designated as a ``mutant of concern'' on November 26, ``whether it is easier to be infected, whether it is more likely to become severe or to be reinfected, and whether it is easy to be infected. I still don't know if the vaccine won't work," he said, explaining that scientists around the world are continuing to investigate to answer these questions.

After that, ``Many people may think that the new coronavirus is over, but the emergence of the Omicron strain tells us that the fight is not over yet,'' he said. He once again called for thorough infection control measures such as vaccination, and for the fair distribution of vaccines to the world.

On December 1st, the final day of the special meeting, we will adopt a resolution to launch a framework between governments to prepare for future global pandemics.

Back to Table of Contents

Strengthen border measures with vigilance against "Omicron strain" Infectivity and vaccine effectiveness (11/29)

November 29, 2021

A new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona confirmed in South Africa. As of 4pm on November 29th, it has been confirmed in 12 countries and regions.

Amidst the spread of the global infection, Prime Minister Kishida will, in principle, suspend new entry of foreigners for business purposes to all countries and regions in the world from midnight on November 30th. made it clear.

At Haneda Airport There are also immigrants from Africa...

Regarding new immigration of foreigners, the government announced on November 8, 2020, that it will apply to short-term business visitors, international students, technical intern trainees, etc. Relaxed from. I was re-opening the country, but after just 3 weeks, I was suspended again.

On November 29th, when I talked to a male office worker who returned from Ivory Coast in West Africa at Haneda Airport, he said, ``I didn't know that foreigners would be suspended from entering tomorrow. I'm glad to be able to come to Japan today because I don't know."

Proceeding with the analysis of whether the immigrants from Namibia are positive for the Omicron strain

In the midst of this, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Goto announced on November 29, shortly after noon, that from Namibia in southern Africa, which is strengthening border measures, 11 It was revealed that a man in his 30s who entered Japan on the evening of March 28 and was inspected at Narita Airport quarantine was infected with the new coronavirus. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases will promptly proceed with genome analysis to determine whether the virus is the Omicron strain. In addition, the man and the two family members who accompanied him, a total of three people, were all staying at a facility designated by the government. It means that

Minister Goto said, "We will continue to carry out genome analysis of all specimens that are positive in quarantine, and we ask that local governments carry out genome analysis by maximizing their current testing capabilities. We will strengthen the domestic inspection system, such as.

From 0:00 am on November 30th, new immigration of foreigners will be suspended in principle A meeting was held by the relevant ministers to discuss responses.

After this, Prime Minister Kishida told reporters, "The virulence and infectivity of the Omicron strain are still being analyzed by experts worldwide, but the WHO = World Health Organization It was designated as a mutant strain of concern."

On top of that, he said, ``In order to avoid the worst situation in our country, as an emergency precautionary measure, we will first ban foreigners from entering the world from midnight on November 30.'' From 0:00 am on the 30th, we announced a policy to suspend new entry of foreigners for business purposes in principle for all countries and regions around the world.

In addition, "For Japanese people, when returning from 14 countries and regions where infection has been confirmed in addition to 9 countries such as South Africa, strict isolation measures will be implemented at designated facilities according to the risk. "These measures are temporary and unusual measures until information about Omicron stock becomes clear to some extent."

On the other hand, Prime Minister Kishida said, ``Japan has the highest vaccination rate among the G7 countries and the shortest time since the second vaccination. I praise it. I recognize that the risk resistance of Omicron stocks is stronger than that of other countries.I would like to call on the public to respond calmly."

And, "I am managing the administration with the idea that unknown risks should be handled cautiously and cautiously.I am prepared to bear all the criticism that I am too cautious even though I do not know the situation yet. I would like to ask the public for their understanding."

[Details] Border measures by the government

▽Regarding the new entry of foreigners, including those for business purposes that have been permitted until now, all countries and regions in the world will be In principle, it will be suspended from 0:00 am on the 30th for "for the time being 1 month". As a result, foreigners who can newly enter Japan in the future will be limited to those who need humanitarian consideration, and a government official said, "It is a virtually all-out ban on entry assuming the worst situation. "I'm talking.

▽In addition, measures will be strengthened for Japanese returnees and others who enter the country after December 1st. Specifically, from the beginning of November, Japanese returnees had to wait at home for a minimum of three days after entering the country on the condition that they were vaccinated. extended to 14 days.

Furthermore, based on the infection situation, returnees from some countries and regions will stay at accommodation facilities near the airport designated by the quarantine station for a certain period of time after entering the country. is taken.

Of these, South Africa, where the Omicron strain was first confirmed, and 10 countries in southern Africa, such as Zimbabwe and Angola, are required to "stop" for 10 days.

In addition, 7 countries such as Israel, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands are required to "stop" for 6 days, and 27 countries and regions such as Australia, Germany, Denmark and Hong Kong are required to "stop" for 3 days.

According to these measures, the upper limit on the number of immigrants, which had been relaxed to 5,000 people per day from November 26th, will be lowered to about 3,500 people from December 1st.

In addition to these border measures, the government will do its utmost to prevent the spread of infection in Japan by following up on the health status of returnees and expanding the monitoring system for Omicron stocks. I'm here.

The Omicron strain is a “concern variant” Both WHO and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases

The WHO announced on November 26 that “VOC = Concern variant” regarding the new variant virus confirmed in South Africa ” and named it “Omicron strain”.

As of November 27, no infected people have been found in Japan, but the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has positioned it as a "VOC" in Japan based on overseas information about the virus.

So far, WHO has designated 4 strains as "VOC": alpha strain, beta strain, gamma strain, and delta strain.

Among them, the alpha and delta strains were very popular in Japan, but the beta and gamma strains were hardly prevalent.

What is the Omicron strain...

How much do you know about the Omicron strain?

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the Omicron strain has 30 mutations, the most of any mutated virus so far, in the protrusion-like "spike protein" on the surface of the virus. In addition, it means that part of the gene is missing.

The "spike protein" is the first part that binds when entering human cells, and is marked by antibodies from vaccines.

Expert "Possibly more infectious than the Delta strain"

We asked Professor Tetsuya Matsumoto of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is familiar with infectious disease control, about the current view of the Omicron strain. .

Professor Matsumoto said, ``It is possible that the structure and properties have changed considerably compared to conventional mutants. I am concerned,” he said.

On top of that, he said, ``Looking at the spread of infection in South Africa, it is spreading to push away the delta strain, and in some cases, it may be more infectious than the delta strain.''

Furthermore, Professor Matsumoto said, ``We don't know at this time, because we haven't got clear data on how seriously the infected people are getting,'' about the risk of aggravation.

Third dose of vaccine Specialist "Promoting vaccination is important." When asked about the government's policy of suspending new entry into the country in principle, Professor Matsumoto said, "It's effective as a border control measure. The sooner the timing, the better. First of all, we should understand the situation, and if we don't have to worry so much. It should be relaxed if it is possible.At first, it should be dealt with severely."

Furthermore, regarding the third vaccination for medical workers scheduled to start in Japan from December 1st, "It may seem unclear how effective it is for the Omicron strain, but what can be done at this time It is to use the means we have now to increase resistance.It will be important to proceed with the scheduled vaccinations."

Furthermore, Professor Matsumoto said, ``If you keep getting nervous all the time, you won't survive the next wave, so you need to respond calmly. It is important to continue to

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases "Thorough basic infection prevention measures are recommended." A significant drop, and an increased risk of reinfection, are of great concern.

However, there is no experimental data at the moment, and epidemiological information is not sufficient. I thought it necessary to keep an eye on things like

On top of that, it is recommended that individuals avoid the 3 Cs as before, wear a mask especially when talking, and thoroughly wash their hands as a basic infection prevention measure for individuals.

Confirmation of infection with Omicron strain in 12 countries and regions

Omicron strain has been confirmed in 12 countries and regions according to NHK's summary as of 4:00 pm on November 29. . In Africa: South Africa and Botswana; in Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark; in the Middle East: Israel; in Asia: Hong Kong; in Oceania: Australia;

President of South Africa "The mutation is more remarkable than any other mutant strain so far"

President Ramaphosa of South Africa held a countermeasures meeting on November 28 in response to the spread of the Omicron strain in the country. I made a speech on TV after opening the

In this, President Ramaphosa said that there are many things that are still unknown about the Omicron strain, but he pointed out that "the mutation is more remarkable than any other mutant strain so far," and the number of new infections per day for the past week He expressed a sense of crisis that the number has increased more than three times compared to the previous week.

After calling on the public not to panic, only 41% of adults have completed at least one vaccination, encouraging them to be vaccinated, and wearing masks in public places. We called for thorough infection control measures such as wearing masks and refraining from events where many people gather.

U.S. President Biden consults with a team of experts

Although no confirmation of infection has been announced in the United States, the White House announced on the 28th that President Biden will be the chief medical adviser in dealing with Omicron stocks. He said he had consulted with a team of experts, including Dr. Fauci, who works there.

President Biden received a report that although it will take two weeks to obtain detailed analysis results, existing vaccines may prevent aggravation to some extent.

The US government has announced travel restrictions from eight countries in southern Africa, including South Africa.

In addition, President Biden plans to announce the latest situation and response on November 29, and vigilance is increasing.

Strengthening countermeasures in South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, and India

Warning against Omicron stocks is increasing in each country.

▽ The Korean government held a countermeasures meeting on November 29 and confirmed its policy to further promote vaccination. Specifically, from early December, the target of additional vaccination will be expanded to those aged 18 and over five months after the completion of vaccination, and in order to encourage additional vaccination, a so-called "vaccine passport" will be valid for six months from the completion of vaccination. We are going to set a deadline. President Moon Jae-in (Moon Jae-in), who attended the conference, expressed a sense of crisis, saying, "We are facing a serious situation that is different from the past." I also instructed them to consider starting supply by the end of the year.

▽ North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency said on November 29 that the Omicron stock "causes serious concern. It's a more dangerous and deadly virus," revealing a strong sense of caution. In North Korea, it is said that there is a shortage of goods due to the border blockade that has continued since the end of January 2020 and economic sanctions, and South Korean intelligence agencies are working to resume imports. was expected to resume in November. However, due to the effects of the new mutated virus, the South Korean media reported that North Korea may delay the easing of the blockade measures, and spokesperson Lee Jeong-ju of the Ministry of Unification of South Korea said at a press conference on November 29, ``Measures The easing of restrictions will be decided based on comprehensive consideration of the development status of quarantine facilities in border areas and trends in the spread of infections.We will closely monitor future trends."

▽ On November 26, the Singapore government banned entry from seven countries, including South Africa. Furthermore, on November 28, regarding measures to allow entry without isolation for those who have completed vaccination, Saudi Arabia in the Middle East, UAE = United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, which were scheduled from December 6, We have announced that we will postpone the start of operations. In addition, on land routes between neighboring Malaysia, where more than 300,000 people came and went a day before the spread of the new corona infection, from November 29, about 1 year and 8 people who had finished vaccination. Although travel has resumed for the first time in months, the Singapore government hastily decided to conduct an antigen test for all immigrants.

▽ On November 28th, the Indian government revised its guidelines for travelers entering the country from abroad. According to this, as of November 26, those who are subject to enhanced quarantine are those traveling from 12 countries and regions, including European countries such as the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, and China. These people are required to undergo a PCR test not only before departure but also after arrival, to stay at the airport until a negative result is confirmed, and to isolate at home for 7 days after that. This guidance will be implemented from December 1st.

Australia to postpone resumption of entry of Japanese nationals

Australia has banned entry of foreigners in principle since March 2020, but from December 1st, entry from Japan and South Korea will be prohibited. If a person has a vaccination certificate, a negative PCR test certificate, and a valid visa, they will be allowed to enter the country, and the tourism and study abroad industries have welcomed it. However, on November 29th, the Australian government announced that the start of this deregulation would be postponed until December 15th. The government said in a statement that it was ``to collect information about the Omicron strain, such as vaccine efficacy and symptoms.''

To Contain Omicron Strains To Hold a G7 Health Ministers Meeting

In the midst of this, the G7 = seven major countries held an emergency health ministers meeting on November 29, with the United Kingdom as the chair. We will discuss measures to contain the infection of the Omicron strain.

Back to Table of Contents

"Omicron stock" Reaction of major domestic companies to strengthen border measures (11/29)

November 29, 2021

When NHK interviewed a major domestic company regarding the strengthening of border measures over the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" confirmed in South Africa, they said, "The impact on business will be limited." There are many places where you can take it calmly.

Of these, the Sony Group said, "From February 2020, overseas business trips are prohibited in principle, and the response remains unchanged." I have not done so, so even if I receive this policy, there will be no particular changes."

In addition, Mitsubishi Corporation said, "Although the impact on business will be limited, we will carefully examine information on mutant strains and consider responding with the safety of local employees as our top priority." We have carefully selected traffic and are also using online.The impact on business will be limited."

Toyota Motor said, ``Nothing has been decided yet, but we would like to monitor the situation and respond to employees who are planning to go overseas in the future.'' After that, it was eased a little, but realistically I rarely go on business trips due to quarantine etc. I still don't know what to do when returning from overseas and restrictions on departure from abroad, so I would like to consider how to deal with it in the future. I'm doing it.

In addition, Idemitsu Kosan said, "Because the medical situation in each country is different, even after the beginning of November, we will continue to cooperate with overseas offices and implement measures to prevent infectious diseases according to the situation in each country. We will continue to prioritize safety," he said.

Suspension of implementation of monitor tour business in which foreigners participate

In response to the suspension of new entry of foreigners in principle from November 30th, the Japan Tourism Agency For the time being, we will suspend the implementation of the monitor tour project in which foreigners will participate, which was planned to be held within the year, in order to verify the issues involved in resuming the acceptance of customers.

Back to Table of Contents

"Omicron strain" positioned as a "mutant of concern" in Japan (11/29)

November 29, 2021

WHO = Regarding the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" of the new coronavirus designated by the World Health Organization as "VOC = Concern mutated strain", the National Institute of Infectious Diseases positions it as "VOC" in Japan and monitors it. We are strengthening our system.

On November 26th, WHO designated the new mutated virus confirmed in South Africa as a "VOC" and named it "Omicron strain".

In Japan, no infected person has been found so far, but the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has positioned it as a "VOC" in Japan based on overseas information about the virus.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the Omicron strain has 30 mutations, the most of any mutated virus so far, in the protrusions called "spike proteins" on the surface of the virus. , In addition to this, part of the gene is missing.

The "spike protein" is the part that first binds when it enters human cells, and is marked by antibodies from vaccines.

For this reason, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases says that there are strong concerns about increased infectivity, a significant decrease in the effectiveness of vaccines, and an increased risk of reinfection.

However, there is no experimental data at the moment, and epidemiological information is not sufficient. I thought it necessary to keep an eye on things like

On top of that, as an individual's basic infection prevention measures, it is recommended to avoid the 3 Cs as before, wear a mask especially when talking, and thoroughly wash your hands.

Back to Table of Contents

"Omicron strain" infection confirmed in Canada Heightened caution in the United States (11/29)

November 29, 2021

While the infection of the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" confirmed in South Africa is spreading, two infected people have been confirmed in Canada. In the United States, there is no announcement of infection confirmation, but vigilance is increasing in North America as President Biden consults with a team of experts.

The Canadian government announced on November 28 that two people infected with the "Omicron strain", which the WHO = World Health Organization designated as a "mutant strain of concern", were confirmed in the capital Ottawa.

Both of them have travel history to Nigeria in Africa.

Canadian media say this is the first time a confirmed "Omicron strain" infection has been announced in North America.

Also, in the United States, there is no announcement of infection confirmation, but on November 28, the White House announced that President Biden will work with a team of experts such as Dr. announced that it had been negotiated.

President Biden received a report that although it will take two weeks to obtain detailed analysis results, existing vaccines may prevent aggravation to some extent.

Back to Table of Contents

President of South Africa "Surge in Omicron Strain Mutations" (11/29)

November 29, 2021

South Africa's President Ramaphosa, who was confirmed to have a new mutated virus, said in a television speech, ``The Omicron strain has mutated more than any other mutated strain so far, and the number of infected people has increased rapidly since it was confirmed in Japan.'' , and called on the public to take thorough infection control measures, including vaccination.

Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, held a countermeasures meeting on November 28 in response to the spread of the "Omicron strain", which the WHO = World Health Organization designated as a "mutant strain of concern" in the country. After opening, I gave a speech on TV.

In this, President Ramaphosa said that there are many things that are still unknown about the Omicron strain, but he pointed out that "the mutation is more remarkable than any other mutant strain so far," and added that the number of new He expressed a sense of crisis that the number of infected people has increased more than three times compared to the previous week.

After calling on the public not to panic, only 41% of adults have completed at least one vaccination, encouraging them to be vaccinated, and wearing masks in public places. We called for thorough infection control measures such as wearing masks and refraining from events where many people gather.

On the other hand, President Ramaphosa criticized the spread of restrictions on immigration from South Africa as "discriminatory", and in order for the world to prevent a pandemic, developed countries and developing countries I appealed that the vaccine disparity that spreads should be corrected.

Back to Table of Contents

Each country tightens immigration restrictions (11/29)

November 29, 2021

The Netherlands has so far confirmed 13 infections among passengers arriving on commercial flights, amidst the spread of a new mutated virus confirmed in South Africa.

In addition to Europe such as the United Kingdom and Germany, infections have also been confirmed in Australia, and each country is strengthening measures such as restricting entry from southern Africa.

The new mutated virus confirmed in South Africa was designated by the WHO = World Health Organization on November 26 as the same ``mutant strain of concern'' as the delta strain that is currently spreading, and is called the ``Omicron strain''. named.

So far, infections have been confirmed in Botswana, Hong Kong, and Israel, neighboring countries of South Africa, and in Europe, Italy, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, and Belgium.

The Netherlands So far, 13 people have been confirmed to be infected with the "Omicron strain"

In addition, in the Netherlands, 61 positive passengers who arrived on a passenger plane from South Africa on November 26 were confirmed, and health officials has announced that 13 people have been confirmed to have been infected with the new mutated virus "Omicron strain" so far.

Since the results of all 61 people have not yet been released, the authorities say that the number of people infected with the "Omicron strain" may increase in the future.

Confirmed infection in Denmark

Also, on November 28, health authorities in Denmark in northern Europe confirmed that two people who entered the country from South Africa were infected with the "Omicron strain." Announced.

This is the first time that an infection with the "Omicron strain" has been confirmed in Denmark.

French Suspected Cases

Also, the French Ministry of Health has announced that eight suspected cases of infection with the "Omicron strain" have been found.

If the infection is confirmed, it will be the first time in France.

Trends in immigration restrictions in various countries

In addition, on November 28, two new cases of infection were confirmed in Australia, who entered the country from southern Africa.

Regarding the "Omicron strain", the infectivity, the risk of aggravation, and the impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine have not been clarified. I'm here.

The Australian government has announced that it will ban the entry of foreigners from nine African countries including South Africa, and the Philippine government has announced that in addition to African countries such as South Africa, European countries such as the Netherlands, In principle, we have announced that we will not allow entry from 14 countries.

Also, Israel has decided to ban all foreigners from entering the country for 14 days, and Morocco has suspended all direct flights from abroad for two weeks from midnight on November 29th. announced.

In addition, England, which accounts for the majority of the population of the United Kingdom, has begun to strengthen domestic regulations, such as making it mandatory to wear masks on public transport again. We are strengthening.

G7 Health Ministers Meeting to be Held

G7 = The United Kingdom, the chair of the seven major countries, announced on November 29th following the spread of the new mutated virus "Omicron strain". He announced that he would hold an emergency health ministers meeting.

It means that we will discuss how to deal with "Omicron stock".

Back to Table of Contents

"Omicron strain" infection confirmed in Australia in addition to Europe, immigration restrictions spread (11/28)

November 28, 2021

The new mutated virus confirmed in South Africa was confirmed to be infected in Europe such as the United Kingdom and Germany, and on November 28, two new infections were confirmed in Australia. Countries around the world are moving to restrict immigration from southern Africa.

The new mutated virus confirmed in South Africa was designated by the WHO = World Health Organization on November 26 as the same ``mutant strain of concern'' as the delta strain that is currently spreading, and is called the ``Omicron strain''. named.

So far, infections have been confirmed in Botswana, Hong Kong, and Israel, neighboring countries of South Africa, and in Europe, Italy has been confirmed, following the United Kingdom, Germany, and Belgium.

Furthermore, on November 28, two new cases of infection were confirmed in Australia from southern Africa.

According to Australian authorities, the two infected people had completed their vaccinations.

On the other hand, in the Netherlands, 61 positives were confirmed among passengers who arrived by plane from South Africa, and authorities are rushing to confirm that several people are suspected of being infected with the "Omicron strain".

Regarding the "Omicron strain", the infectivity, the risk of aggravation, the impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine, etc. have not yet been clarified, but there is a growing movement among countries to restrict entry from southern Africa. I'm here.

The Australian government has announced that it will ban foreigners from nine African countries, including South Africa, from entering the country and will require Australians to quarantine for 14 days after entry.

Israel has also decided to strengthen border measures and ban entry of all foreigners, including those from other regions, including Europe, for 14 days.

In addition, in England, where the majority of the population is, some places are embarking on strengthening domestic regulations, such as requiring the wearing of masks in public transportation and retail stores again, and there are moves to further strengthen measures. .

"Omicron strain" first confirmed infection in Australia

On November 28th, two people who entered from southern Africa in New South Wales, where Australia's largest city Sydney is located, were infected with a new mutated virus " announced that he was infected with the Omicron strain.

This is the first confirmed case of infection in Australia.

According to the state government's announcement, the infection was confirmed on November 27th, two people who entered Australia from southern Africa, and both had completed the new coronavirus vaccine. .

In response to the confirmation of the Omicron strain in each country, the Australian government banned foreigners from nine African countries, including South Africa, from entering on November 27, and ▼ Australians were also allowed to enter after entering the country. announced a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

In addition, some states, such as New South Wales, have abolished the 14-day quarantine obligation for those entering from overseas on the condition that they are vaccinated since November, but from November 28, 9 in Africa. Newly obliged to quarantine for 3 days after entering the country, regardless of nationality, for those who enter from other countries.

Airline companies announce cancellation of flights to southern Africa

With the confirmation of a new mutated virus and the strengthening of border measures in various countries, airlines are connecting with southern Africa. We are forced to take measures such as canceling flights.

Of these, Emirates Airlines, which is based in the UAE = United Arab Emirates, has announced that it will temporarily suspend flights to and from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

Also, ▼ Qatar Airways has decided not to accept passengers from five countries in southern Africa, and ▼ Singapore Airlines is changing passenger flights connecting South Africa to cargo flights.

Airlines around the world have been hit hard by the spread of the new coronavirus, and are becoming more wary of further impacts.

Back to Table of Contents

New Mutant Virus "Omicron Strain" Designated as a Mutant of Concern WHO (11/27)

November 27, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization announced on November 26 that it held an emergency meeting of experts and others and designated the new mutant virus confirmed in South Africa as a ``concern mutation''.

As for the reason for the designation, WHO says that the scientific evidence currently available shows that the risk of reinfection is higher than other "concerned mutant strains". .

The name is "Omicron strain".

About this mutated virus, South African health authorities announced on November 25 that 77 cases of infection were confirmed in Gauteng Province, where the largest city, Johannesburg, is located. , has also been found in Hong Kong, Israel and Belgium.

This time, the WHO has designated the new mutated virus confirmed in South Africa as the same ``mutant strain of concern'' as the delta strain that is currently spreading, which will strengthen the global surveillance system. Become.

Mr. Bankerkov, who is the technical director of the new coronavirus countermeasures at WHO, said that the Omicron strain had ``many mutations, some of which have worrisome characteristics.'' He revealed that each country is conducting research on the severity of the disease, the risk of aggravation, and the impact on diagnosis and vaccine efficacy.

Confirmation of new mutated virus infection in Asia and Europe

Infections with new mutated viruses confirmed in South Africa have so far been confirmed in neighboring Botswana, Hong Kong, Israel, It has also been confirmed in Belgium.

Two cases were confirmed in Hong Kong: a man who was quarantined in a hotel after arriving from South Africa on November 11, and a man who arrived from Canada who was quarantined in the room opposite him.

Since both of them had completed two vaccinations, it is highly likely that the man from Canada was infected when he opened the door to the room to deliver the meal. .

One person confirmed to be infected in Israel is a person who returned from Malawi in southern Africa.

The Belgian infected person arrived from Egypt via Turkey on November 11th, had not been vaccinated and had not been in or around South Africa, according to local public media. I'm here.

Back to Table of Contents

New Mutant Virus Discovered in South Africa that Reduces Vaccine Effectiveness (11/26)

November 26, 2021

South African health officials announced on November 25 that they had found a new mutant virus that could make the new coronavirus vaccine less effective. WHO = The World Health Organization is considering whether to designate this virus as a "concerned mutation".

The South African health authorities announced on November 25 that a new variant virus of the new coronavirus was detected in the capital Pretoria and Gauteng Province, which includes the largest city Johannesburg.

According to health authorities, 77 cases of this mutated virus have been confirmed in the country so far, but the rate of detection is increasing rapidly, and it is possible that it has spread beyond Gauteng. There is.

In addition, this mutant virus has a mutation that may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine, and it has been detected in neighboring Botswana besides South Africa. that it has been detected.

Regarding this, Mr. Bankerkov, who is the technical director of the new coronavirus countermeasures at WHO, said on November 25, "Although little is known about this mutant virus, experts are currently investigating the effects of therapeutic drugs and vaccines. We are investigating what the impact will be," he said.

WHO will consider whether to designate the virus as a 'variant of concern' or 'a variant of note'.

British government bans travel to a total of 6 countries, including South Africa

In response to the confirmation of a new mutated virus in South Africa, the British government decided to ban South Africa and its surrounding Botswana. We have announced measures to tighten travel restrictions for a total of six countries from noon on November 26th local time and 9:00 pm on November 26th Japan time.

Direct flights from these countries will be suspended and entry will be prohibited.

In addition, people living in the UK will be required to quarantine at government-designated hotels.

On the night of November 25, Health Minister Javid responded to media interviews, saying, "This mutant virus may be more infectious than the Delta strain and may weaken the effectiveness of the vaccine." emphasized the need

According to the British government, no new mutating virus has been confirmed in the UK so far, and this measure is a precautionary measure.

Chief Cabinet Secretary ``Respond with a sense of urgency''

Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, ``Infections are spreading, mainly in South Africa, regarding new mutations of the new coronavirus. If a new mutant strain is confirmed, we believe it is important to evaluate its infectivity, severity, and impact on vaccine efficacy. We are responding with empathy," he said.

On top of that, ``At the moment, it has not been confirmed in Japan, including airport quarantine, but we are still collecting information on the WHO = World Health Organization and trends in other countries. All the collected specimens are subjected to genome analysis at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and we are monitoring the trend of mutant strains through genome surveillance in Japan."

And ``The key to crisis management is to assume the worst. Regarding border measures, if the situation worsens, such as the spread of new mutant strains, it should be handled flexibly. We are planning to respond to this matter quickly and appropriately."

Back to Table of Contents

Are Mutant Virus “Mu Strain” Vaccines Less Effective Against Antibodies? (11/4)

November 4, 2021

Regarding the ``mu strain'', one of the mutated viruses of the new coronavirus that spread in South America, etc., a group such as the University of Tokyo conducted an experiment using the blood of a person who had been vaccinated, and found that the ``mu strain'' It was found that the effect of the antibody was greatly reduced.

This research was published in the American medical journal "New England Journal of Medicine" by a group led by Associate Professor Kei Sato of the Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo.

In the group, we artificially reproduced the characteristics of the mutant virus "mu strain" of the new coronavirus, and experimented how much it reacts with the antibodies contained in the blood of people who have been vaccinated by Pfizer.

As a result, the amount of antibody required to suppress the action of the virus against the "mu strain" is 9.1 times greater than that of the conventional virus, and the action of the antibody is reduced. It means that I found out.

According to the group, the current vaccine can be expected to have various immune reactions other than antibodies, so it is not possible to know the impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine from this experiment alone, so further research is needed in the future. is.

Associate Professor Sato said, "It is thought that the new coronavirus will continue to mutate. It is important to clarify the characteristics of the virus and establish a mechanism to share information internationally, as in this research." I'm talking to

Back to Table of Contents

Is the new Corona Delta strain "airborne"?! What we know now (9/13)

September 13, 2021

The 5th wave of the new coronavirus, which has become the largest ever spread of infection. It seems that the peak has finally passed, but as the highly contagious ``Delta strain'' becomes mainstream, some people are beginning to think that ``the new coronavirus is airborne.''

Isn't the new corona "flying infection" and "contact infection"? Is it mutating to be airborne?

This is a summary of what we know.

Japanese experts noticed ``micro-flying'' infection

In February 2020, when the new corona infection began in Japan, Japanese experts who were taking measures I noticed

At the time, WHO = World Health Organization, etc. said that the new corona was "flying infection" through the virus contained in the droplets emitted when coughing, etc., and touching the nose and mouth with a virus-covered hand. I've been calling it a "contact infection" that spreads in...

If you look closely at cases of indoor infections, such as cases of infection at a rest area where you were warming up at the snow festival in Sapporo, there are more routes of infection. It was found that very small droplets containing the virus floated in a closed space for a certain period of time and were infected by inhaling them.

I noticed that there is infection by "micro-flying" that floats in space, unlike "flying" that falls immediately.

Based on this discovery, in addition to washing hands, disinfecting, and avoiding conversations without a mask, measures to avoid the 3 Cs of "closed, crowded, and close" were born, as introduced by WHO and others. became.

Now that the delta strain has become mainstream, is it becoming more infectious and something like "airborne infection" is happening?

What kind of infection is "airborne infection"?

Before that, what kind of infection is airborne?

Spirit such as saliva from an infected person dries, and the pathogens in it float and spread in the air while maintaining their infectivity. "Air infection" occurs by inhaling this.

It is said to be the most difficult to deal with because the "flying nucleus", which is 5 micrometers in diameter and 5/1000 mm or less, floats for several hours and can be inhaled and infected by people in the same space. If you cough in the same room far away, such as in the front row of a classroom, you can also get infected in the back row.

However, according to the CDC = Center for Disease Control in the United States, airborne infections are limited to viruses such as tuberculosis, measles, chicken pox, and shingles.

Measles is said to infect 1 to 12 to 18 people if no measures are taken.

In the new corona, although it is smaller than the "flying nucleus", it is not as small as the "flying nucleus", and it has been said that there is an infection in a "micro-flying" that floats in a certain time and space.

Possibility of the Delta strain being as contagious as chicken pox

So what about the Delta strain?

On the CDC's website on how the Delta strain is contagious and how it spreads, it says that it is more than twice as contagious as before, and that it can be more severe without vaccination. However, there is no mention of "airborne infection".

Also, in the proposal compiled by the government's subcommittee in mid-August, ``the highly contagious delta strain makes it easier to spread infection,'' but ``the main infection pattern remains unchanged. , flies, or micro-flies, and it is necessary to thoroughly implement countermeasures so far."

On the other hand, according to the CDC's internal data, with the conventional virus, one patient infected an average of 1.5 to 3.5 people, while the delta strain infects an average of 5 to 9.5 people. It is assumed that there is a possibility, and in the highest case, it is estimated that it may have "the same level of infectiousness as chicken pox".

Expert pointed out the possibility of "the effect of a large amount of virus"

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on countermeasures against the new coronavirus, Although it is certain that the infection is strong, it is said that there is no proof that it is airborne at present.

Professor Tateda "In order to prove 'air infection', the water in the droplets emitted from the infected person evaporates, and the virus remains in the 'flying nucleus' and floats in the air. A contagious condition needs to be observed, which has not yet been proven with Covid-19.”

Professor Tateda points out that the strong infectiousness of the delta strain may be due to the large amount of virus shed by the patient.

"Although it is being proven clinically, it is possible that the amount of virus is extremely high. For that reason, we must carefully analyze whether it appears to be airborne."

Estimated viral load more than four times higher than conventional private testing company

Although it has not been proven to be airborne, the delta strain is infectious enough to make you think so. Further investigation revealed that there was data to back this up.

In the delta strain, a summary of a private testing company found that the amount of virus detected in patients is estimated to be at least four times that of the conventional new coronavirus.

The data was compiled by BML, a major testing company that conducts up to 20,000 PCR tests per day.

The PCR test amplifies the gene contained in the sample to check for the presence of the virus. The number of times of amplification is called "Ct value", and generally, if this value is within 40, it is considered "positive". If the "Ct value" is small but it is detected, it indicates that the amount of virus is large.

When we examined the percentage of less than 20 times, half of the 40 times that the "Ct value" was positive, ▽ 38.0% of the total in January ▽ The first confirmed alpha strain in the UK spread It was 41.4% even in April.

It was ▽ 65.9% in July when delta stocks became mainstream, and 63.7% in August.

In this study, based on the most frequent Ct values ​​in each period, the amount of virus contained in the sample was at least 4 to 64 times higher in the delta strain than in the conventional and alpha strains. It means that it can be considered that

Toshikazu Yamaguchi, executive officer of "BML", said, "Since July, we have been seeing samples with a clearly small Ct value and a large amount of virus. Compared to conventional viruses, I didn't imagine there was such a difference.It can be said that there is a decisive difference in viral load."

Measures should be taken assuming that the amount of virus is large

About this data, Professor Tateda said that this is the first time that domestic data has shown that the amount of virus detected in patients is high in the delta strain. That's what I'm saying.

Assuming that the amount of virus is large, ▽ Wear a non-woven mask ▽ Keep a distance between people ▽ Sit diagonally across from each other when eating and drinking ▽ Wear a mask when eating and drinking It is important to take measures such as thoroughly

Ventilation is especially important, and it is important to do it once or twice an hour for 5 to 10 minutes at a time.

On top of that, ``It has been reported that when the temperature is low, the virus can easily maintain its infectivity while flying. It is important to take thorough measures from now on.Even if you get a vaccine, you may be unknowingly spreading the infection, so I want you to be vigilant and take measures.”

Unable to find clear evidence of "airborne infection" Take thorough measures

At present, we have not come across any clear evidence that the delta strain is airborne.

However, it is true that it is highly contagious, and data supporting this has been reported.

Even in countries where vaccination has progressed, the delta strain is re-expanding the infection, so there is no doubt that thorough ventilation is necessary in addition to the measures taken so far.

Back to Table of Contents

Is the amount of virus detected in the "delta strain" patient more than four times that of the conventional type? (9/13)

September 13, 2021

In the highly contagious delta strain, the amount of virus detected in patients is estimated to be at least four times that of the conventional new coronavirus, according to a summary of a private testing company. It is believed to be the first domestic data to show that the amount of virus detected in patients is high in the delta strain, and experts say that it is necessary to wear non-woven masks and take measures to ensure thorough ventilation.

The data was compiled by BML, a major testing company that conducts up to 20,000 PCR tests per day.

In a PCR test, the presence or absence of the virus is checked by amplifying the genes contained in the sample.

When the company investigated how many times it was amplified, the percentage that was less than 20 times was ▽ 38.0% of the total in January, ▽ Alpha strains first confirmed in the UK spread Although it was 41.4% in April, it was 65.9% in July when ▽ delta stocks became mainstream, and 63.7% in August.

The number of times of amplification is called "Ct value", and when this value is within 40, it is generally considered "positive". Estimates suggest that the amount of virus in a sample could be at least 4- to 64-fold higher for delta strains than for conventional or alpha strains.

This is the first time that domestic data has shown that the amount of virus detected in patients is high for the delta strain. We are seeing more and more samples with high amounts, and it can be said that there is a decisive difference in the viral load."

In addition, Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, a member of the government's subcommittee on countermeasures against the new coronavirus, said, ``The delta strain has a very large amount of virus, and it is present in a large amount in the throat and saliva. Considering that there is a considerable amount of virus in the micro-sprays that come out, it is necessary to use non-woven masks and ensure thorough ventilation."

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona 18 people infected with "Eta strain" in Japan First infection found in Japan (9/10)

September 10, 2021

Since December 2020, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has announced that 18 people who have tested positive for the new coronavirus at a domestic quarantine station have been designated as ``notable mutations'' by the WHO = World Health Organization. It revealed that it was infected with "Eta strain". This is the first time that an infection has been confirmed in Japan.

The ``Eta strain'' was first confirmed in the UK in December 2020, and in March 2021, the WHO announced that ``VOI = notable mutation,'' which may affect infectivity and vaccine efficacy. designated as a stock.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that among those who arrived in Japan from December 2020 to September 3, 2021, the results of genetic analysis at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases on the samples of those who tested positive for quarantine. announced that a total of 18 people were infected with the eta strain.

This is the first time that an infection with the eta strain has been found in Japan.

According to the website that registers the gene sequences of the new coronavirus, infections with the eta strain have been reported in more than 70 countries, mainly in Europe and the United States.

Notable mutation strains include the "Lambda strain", which is spreading mainly in South America, the "Mu strain", which has been reported in South America and Europe, and the "Kappa strain", which was found in India. Five types have been designated and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare continues to monitor them.

Back to Table of Contents

[Details] What is “mu strain”? Summary of the latest information on corona mutations (9/2)

September 2, 2021

For the first time in Japan, it was found that two people were infected with the mutated virus "mu strain" of the new coronavirus.

Mutant viruses that appear one after another. We have summarized what types have been reported so far and what characteristics they have.

What is the ``mu strain''?

The World Health Organization announced on August 30, 2021 that the mutated virus of the new coronavirus ” was positioned.

This time, the letter following "lambda" in Greek was "mu strain".

According to WHO, since the mu strain was first confirmed in Colombia, South America in January 2021, infections have been confirmed in South America and Europe, especially in Colombia and Ecuador.

According to the website "GISAID" that registers the gene sequence of the new coronavirus, it has been reported in 42 countries and regions as of September 2nd.

In addition, according to the website of a research institute that collects information on mutant viruses, the mu strain has a mutation called "N501Y" in the virus's "spike protein" gene and a mutation called "E484K" that escapes antibody attacks. These two mutations were confirmed in South Africa, and are also found in the `` beta strain '' that WHO positions as `` VOC = Concern Mutant Strain ''.

According to the WHO, preliminary data suggests that, like the "beta strain," the immunity obtained by vaccines is reduced, but further research is needed to determine the detailed nature. about it.

For this reason, WHO says that it will pay close attention to the situation of the mu strain, especially if it is prevalent at the same time as the "delta strain".

WHO = The World Health Organization considers mutated viruses that have changed in nature, such as increased infectivity, increased severity of infection, and reduced effectiveness of vaccines, as "concerned mutations = VOC" is calling for international vigilance.

In addition, ▽ mutated viruses that may affect the infectivity and the effectiveness of vaccines, and ▽ mutated viruses that have been found across countries and regions are designated as "mutant strains to watch out = VOI". .

WHO advocates calling mutated viruses by Greek letters to prevent discriminatory treatment of certain countries.

As of September 2, 2021, a total of 9 types of mutated viruses are listed as "VOC" and "VOI".

Four types of mutated strains of concern = VOC

There are four types of mutated viruses that the WHO considers to be VOCs.

"Alpha strain"

The mutated virus "Alpha strain" found in the UK was first reported in early December 2020 and has since spread worldwide.

It is known that this virus has a mutation called "N501Y" in the "spike protein".

This means that the 501st amino acid of the "spike protein" has been replaced from asparagine (abbreviation N) to tyrosine (abbreviation Y).

According to the information compiled by WHO, this mutant virus is more contagious than the conventional virus, and the risk of hospitalization, severe illness and death is higher.

On the other hand, Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines do not have a big impact on the effectiveness of vaccines.

Beta Strains

The first mutant viruses found in South Africa are called 'Beta Strains'.

It was said to have occurred in May 2020, and an analysis conducted in South Africa in mid-November suggests that most of them were this mutant virus.

In addition to the ``N501Y'' mutation, there is also a ``E484K'' mutation that escapes antibody attack, so there are concerns about the impact on the efficacy of the vaccine.

According to the WHO summary, the effects of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines range from studies that say the impact is "minimal" to studies that say it is "substantially reduced."

"Gamma Strain"

The mutant virus that spread in Brazil is called "gamma strain". It was first detected in a person arriving in Japan from Brazil on January 6, 2021.

In Brazil, it was confirmed in November 2020 samples, and according to WHO, as of March and April 2021, 83% of the samples in Brazil that had undergone a detailed genetic examination were 83%.

Similar to the 'beta strain' confirmed in South Africa, in addition to 'N501Y', it is known that there is also a 'E484K' mutation that escapes antibody attack.

According to the WHO summary, Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines have been reported to have "low" to "moderate" effects.

"Delta Strain"

The WHO calls the 3 types of mutated viruses with the "L452R" mutation found in India the "Delta Strain", the type with the most widespread infection. It is VOC.

It is said that the infectivity is increasing, and it has been pointed out that the risk of hospitalization if infected is increasing.

Regarding the effectiveness of vaccines, the WHO summary shows that the Pfizer vaccine had no or minimal effect on the ability to neutralize the virus.

Five types of mutated strains to watch out for = VOI

There are five types of mutated viruses, including the mu strain, that the WHO has positioned as VOIs.

"Eta strain"

▽"Eta strain" A mutant virus that was first confirmed in the UK in December 2020.

"Iota strain"

▽"Iota strain" A mutant virus found in New York, USA.

"Kappa Strain"

▽"Kappa Strain" Mutant virus found in India.

"Lambda strain"

▽"Lambda strain" A mutant virus that was first reported in Peru. According to WHO, as of June 15, 2021, 29 countries and regions have reported it. In particular, many cases have been reported in South America, such as Peru and Chile. It means that we still don't know much about the infectivity and the impact on the efficacy of the vaccine.

Other Mutant Viruses

Each country determines its own mutated viruses to be "VOC" or "VOI" according to the local situation.

In Japan, as of September 2, 2021, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has designated all four types of mutated viruses that are WHO's "VOC" as "VOC", and "VOI" as "Kappa". stock" is specified.

Both of them are believed to have come from overseas, but the detailed origin is unknown, and it is believed that the infectivity will not change.

In addition, although it is unlikely that these mutant viruses will completely nullify the effectiveness of the vaccine, considering the possibility of reducing the effectiveness, it is necessary to keep an eye on the infection situation.

In the world, the gene sequence of the new coronavirus has been published in the database, and new mutant viruses are being reported one after another.

WHO wants countries to continue to strengthen their countermeasures through surveys to see the spread of the virus, strategic testing, and genome analysis.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus ``mu strain'' confirmed for the first time in Japan "May affect vaccines" WHO (9/2)

September 2, 2021

Two people who were tested positive for the new coronavirus at the airport quarantine station until July 2021 were confirmed to be positive for the mutated virus designated by the WHO as a ``mutant strain of note''. It turned out that I was infected with the mu strain. This is the first time it has been confirmed in Japan.

The ``mu strain'' of the mutated virus has been reported in South America and Europe, and on August 30, WHO identified it as ``VOI = noteworthy mutant strain'' that may affect the effectiveness and infectivity of vaccines. Positioned.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare retrospectively examined the results of genetic analysis of the specimens collected in the quarantine inspection. ▽ It was found that two women in their 50s who arrived at Haneda Airport from England on July 5 were infected with the mu strain.

It is the first time that infection with the mu strain has been found in Japan, and Takaji Wakita, director of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said, ``Various mutant viruses have emerged, but there is a situation where they push aside conventional viruses and spread. We need to be careful and we need to gather information.”

According to WHO, it has been pointed out that the mu strain may affect the effectiveness of vaccines, and since it was first confirmed in Colombia in January, infections have been reported in more than 30 countries. increase.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato "Monitoring trends in mutant strains"

Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato said at a press conference on the morning of September 2, "WHO = According to the World Health Organization, mutations in the mu strain has been suggested to have a potential impact on vaccines, but further investigation is needed."

On top of that, ``We will continue to collect information and conduct genome analysis at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases for all specimens that are found to be positive in quarantine. We would like to constantly review our border measures, taking into consideration the trend of infections overseas."

Back to Table of Contents

Detection of new mutated “delta strain” Unknown impact on infectivity (8/31)

August 31, 2021

A group at Tokyo Medical and Dental University announced that a virus with a new mutation was detected for the first time in Japan in the highly infectious mutated virus "Delta strain", which is the mainstream of the new coronavirus epidemic. bottom. The group plans to proceed with further analysis, as it is not known whether there is any impact on infectivity.

This was presented by a group led by Associate Professor Hiroaki Takeuchi of Tokyo Medical and Dental University.

In mid-August, the group collected a mutated virus of the "delta strain" from a patient who visited a university hospital and examined the gene in detail.

There are only 8 reports of delta strains with this mutation in the world, and it is the first in Japan, so it is believed that the mutation occurred in Japan due to genetic characteristics.

This mutation is similar to the ``N501Y'' mutation in the ``alpha strain'' first found in the UK, but it is not known whether it affects the infectivity.

The group plans to continue the analysis, and Associate Professor Takeuchi said, ``If the infection spreads, there is a possibility that new mutant strains will appear one after another in Japan, so it is necessary to somehow suppress the infection. We have to further expand our monitoring system."

Back to Table of Contents

What are the side effects of vaccines that you are concerned about? What are the characteristics of delta and lambda strains? (8/16)

August 16, 2021

It is now estimated that the new coronavirus has been replaced by a mutated virus "delta strain" in most parts of the country. In addition, a new mutant virus called "Lambda strain" has also been found in quarantine. Mutant viruses that appear one after another. Among them, I summarized what kind of virus is about the delta strain and the lambda strain.

Vaccine side effects of concern

First of all, about the side effects of the corona vaccine, how often have they been reported?

According to the materials of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's research group presented at the special committee on side effects of vaccines on August 4, 2021, the main side effects of Pfizer's vaccine are 92.6% after the 1st vaccination, 89.5% after the 2nd vaccination, ▽ 23.2% after the 1st vaccination, 68.9% after the 2nd vaccination, ▽ had a headache 21.4% after the 1st vaccination, 53.1% after the 2nd vaccination, ▽ Itching 8.0% after the 1st vaccination, 11.9% after the 2nd vaccination, ▽ Fever of 38 degrees or higher at the 1st vaccination It is 0.9% after that, and 21.3% after the second vaccination.

In addition, with Moderna's vaccine, there is a high percentage of side reactions after the second vaccination, and ▽ 86.5% of those who had aching pain and pain after the first vaccination, and after the second vaccination. 88.2%, ▽ 26.8% after the first vaccination, 83.9% after the second vaccination, ▽ headache 17.4% after the first vaccination, 67.6% after the second vaccination ▽Itching was 5.3% after the first vaccination, 13.7% after the second vaccination, ▽ Fever of 38 degrees or higher was 2.1% after the first vaccination, and 61.9% after the second vaccination. increase.

As of July 25, 43 people with Pfizer's vaccine and 3 people with Moderna were reported to have suspected myocarditis or pericarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle and membrane. was also at a rate of 1.1 per million.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said, ``Since the ages at which the two types of vaccines are administered are different, simple comparisons cannot be made.'' We will continue to vaccinate.

Also, according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) in the United States, side effects usually disappear within a few days after vaccination.

Most of them were mild to moderate, and the number of adverse reactions that affected daily life was small.

"Delta strain" is the current threat

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), the delta strain was first reported in India in October 2020 and has since April 2021. It is considered one of the causes of the explosive spread of infection.

The WHO has positioned it as a VOC (mutant of concern), which has the highest alertness, and as of August 10, 2021, 142 countries and regions have reported delta strains.

It is highly contagious, about twice as much as the conventional new coronavirus, and about 1.5 times as much as the alpha strain that spread in the fourth wave of the spread of infection in Japan.

The delta strain is positioned as a VOC (mutant strain of concern) by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Japan.

Each country is currently conducting research on whether it is easy to become seriously ill if infected, but WHO says that the risk of hospitalization is increasing.

Among them, in a study shown in August 2021 when a group at the University of Toronto, Canada, had not yet been peer-reviewed by experts, 200,000 new corona patients were analyzed, and the delta strain was Compared to conventional viruses, the risk of hospitalization was 2.08 times higher, the risk of requiring ICU was 3.34 times higher, and the risk of dying was 2.32 times higher.

The WHO said that laboratory studies have shown that vaccines produce fewer neutralizing antibodies against the Delta strain.

"Lambda strain" has many unknown parts

According to WHO, the mutant virus Lambda strain was first reported in Peru in South America in August 2020, and has spread to South American countries such as Peru, Chile, and Ecuador. It spreads around the world.

As of August 15, 2021, Lambda strains have been reported from 34 countries on the website "GISAID" that registers the gene sequences of the new coronavirus around the world, but in the last 4 weeks Most of the registrations are from Chile in South America.

There is a possibility that it is more infectious than conventional viruses, and there is a mutation that makes neutralizing antibodies that suppress the function of the virus less effective. However, it is not as widespread as the mutated viruses that are positioned as VOCs (mutants of concern) such as the delta and alpha strains.

About the lambda strain, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has not yet positioned it as a VOC (mutant of concern) or VOI (mutant of interest).

There are many unknowns about the infectivity of the lambda strain and the severity of infection, and the WHO says it is necessary to further investigate whether it affects the effectiveness of measures to control infection and vaccines.

The Lambda strain was actually found earlier than the Delta strain, but the Delta strain spreads faster than the Lambda strain, making it a more pressing problem in each country.

Is the vaccine effective against the delta strain?

There are studies from various countries that show that the vaccine currently administered in Japan is highly effective against the Delta strain.

Among these, in July 2021, in the international medical journal "New England Journal of Medicine", research by British health authorities and groups such as the University of London showed the preventive effect of vaccines against delta strains. reported that the Pfizer vaccine was 35.6% after 1 dose and 88.0% after 2 doses, and the AstraZeneca vaccine was 30.0% after 1 dose and 67.0% after 2 doses.

The research group said, ``After two doses, a high preventive effect was also seen against the delta strain.''

In addition, according to the results of an analysis of 77,000 people published by groups such as the Mayo Clinic in the United States as a paper before being peer-reviewed, in July 2021, when the delta strain spread widely, infection was confirmed. The preventive effect was 42% for Pfizer's vaccine and 76% for Moderna's vaccine, which was lower than before, but the effect of preventing hospitalization was 75% for Pfizer's vaccine and 81% for Moderna's vaccine. I'm assuming you've maintained your standards.

Back to Table of Contents

Japan's first confirmation in Peru "Lambda strain" Haneda airport quarantine woman confirmed infection (8/6)

August 6, 2021

It was found that a woman who was confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus at the quarantine station at Haneda Airport in July was infected with the mutated virus "Lambda strain" reported in Peru and other places in South America. rice field. This is the first time that a lambda strain has been confirmed in Japan.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, it was confirmed that a woman in her 30s who arrived at Haneda Airport from Peru on July 20th was infected with the new coronavirus by inspection at the quarantine station.

After that, as a result of analyzing the gene of the specimen, the "lambda strain" of the mutant virus confirmed in Peru and other places was detected.

This is the first time that infection with the lambda strain has been confirmed in Japan, including quarantine.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, since the lambda strain was first reported in Peru in August 2020, the infection has spread mainly in South America, and the WHO = World Health Organization has become a "notable mutant strain". I am categorizing.

On the other hand, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases said, ``Although the infectivity and resistance to vaccines may be stronger than conventional viruses, the data is limited.'' not positioned in

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has said that it is difficult to evaluate the lambda strain at this time due to limited information. increase.

Mutant virus "Lambda strain"

According to WHO = World Health Organization, the mutant virus "Lambda strain" was first reported in Peru in South America in August 2020, and Peru, Chile, It spreads mainly in South America such as Ecuador.

It may be more infectious than the conventional virus, and the WHO has positioned it as a "notable mutant strain", but currently it is "concerned" such as "delta strain" and "alpha strain". It does not spread as much as the mutated virus that is positioned as a mutated strain.

Professor Kazuhiro Tateda of Toho University, who is a member of the government's subcommittee on measures against the new coronavirus, said, "Not only is it infectious, but it is also difficult to see how severe the risk is and how effective the vaccine is. It is important to take thorough border control measures while grasping information such as whether or not it is possible.Although it is quite difficult to suppress 100% of the number of cases brought into Japan, it is possible to delay the spread of the virus through border measures.” talking

On top of that, Professor Tateda said, ``The new coronavirus mutates once every two weeks, and it wouldn't be strange if a virus that spreads more easily appeared around the world. We need to work together to take measures to prevent it from spreading."

Status of Mutant Virus Confirmed in Japan

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has confirmed that the nature of the mutant virus may have changed, such as being more infectious than before, or weakening the effectiveness of vaccines. are categorized as "concerned mutant strains = VOC", and mutant viruses that are suggested to have the same impact are classified as "notable mutant strains = VOI", and surveillance is being strengthened.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as of August 6, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases has classified 4 types of VOCs.

Of these, ▽ "Alpha strain" found in the UK was 33,961 in Japan by July 26, and 328 in quarantine. ▽ The "beta strain" first found in South Africa has 22 people in the country and 90 people in quarantine. ▽ The "gamma strain" that spread in Brazil has 94 people in Japan and 24 people in quarantine. ▽ In the "Delta strain" found in India, 1174 people in Japan and 409 people in quarantine have been confirmed to be infected.

Also categorized as "VOI" is the "Kappa strain" found in ▽ India, with 7 confirmed infections in Japan and 19 confirmed in quarantine.

On the other hand, ▽ "Lambda strain" is not positioned as a VOC or VOI, but is closely watching the trend of occurrence.

The new coronavirus is thought to mutate about once every two weeks, and as of August 4, 20, including those that the WHO = World Health Organization is calling for monitoring. beyond kind.

Back to Table of Contents

Delta strain “Will it spread nationwide from one starting point?” Analysis by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (8/6)

August 6, 2021

When the National Institute of Infectious Diseases analyzed how the "delta strain" of the new coronavirus, which has become mainstream in Japan, spread based on genetic data, it was one of the starting points that flowed into the Tokyo metropolitan area from overseas. It is believed that it spread all over the country from

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases analyzed the gene of the virus collected from the infected person and analyzed how it spread for the highly infectious mutant virus delta strain. showed.

According to this, it was found that the earliest strain of the delta strain currently spreading all over the country was the virus that was detected in the Tokyo metropolitan area on May 18, 2021, from a person with no history of overseas travel. Further investigation revealed that a virus very similar to this one was found in an airport quarantine on April 16th.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases is estimated to have spread from one source from overseas, centered on the Tokyo metropolitan area, and then spread nationwide.

On the other hand, many of the clusters of delta strains that were confirmed in Kanto, Kansai, Chubu, Kyushu, etc. around May 2021, which are thought to have flowed in from overseas, did not lead to a large spread of infection, and did not lead to a large spread of infection until around early July. It means that it is almost settled in .

Ryuji Wakita, Director of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said, ``Even in the past domestic epidemics, they have spread nationwide from one starting point, and it is possible that the same thing is happening this time.'' talking

Delta strain Almost 90% of all infections in the Tokyo metropolitan area

The highly contagious mutated new coronavirus "Delta strain" has already reached nearly 90% of all infections in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and even in the Kansai area. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has summarized the results of the estimation that replacement is progressing rapidly, such as accounting for more than 60%.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases based on the data of the "mutant strain screening test" of seven private inspection companies, how much the virus containing the "L452R" mutation found in the delta strain accounts for what percentage? On the 4th, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting presented the results of the estimation.

According to that, delta stocks already account for 90% in Tokyo, and 89% in the three prefectures in the metropolitan area, including Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba, and almost all will be replaced by the end of this month. is.

Also, in Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo prefectures, two prefectures in the Kansai region, the number was low until the beginning of last month, but it has spread rapidly to 63%, and by the end of this month, it will exceed 80%. I'm doing it.

Furthermore, it has been pointed out that the replacement rate is progressing in various places, such as 89% in Okinawa Prefecture and 85% in Fukuoka Prefecture, and the number of hospitalized patients is increasing rapidly, leading to a tight medical situation.

Takaji Wakita, chairman of the expert meeting, said, "The delta strain is about twice as infectious as conventional viruses, and it is difficult to control it even if the same measures are taken with the same strength as before.Infection is sudden. In expanding areas, we have no choice but to limit the flow of people and reduce opportunities for person-to-person contact."

Back to Table of Contents

Delta strain “Will it spread nationwide from one starting point?” Analysis by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (8/6)

August 6, 2021

When the National Institute of Infectious Diseases analyzed how the "delta strain" of the new coronavirus, which has become mainstream in Japan, spread based on genetic data, it was one of the starting points that flowed into the Tokyo metropolitan area from overseas. It is believed that it spread all over the country from

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases analyzed the gene of the virus collected from the infected person and analyzed how it spread for the highly infectious mutant virus delta strain. showed.

According to this, it was found that the earliest strain of the delta strain currently spreading all over the country was the virus that was detected in the Tokyo metropolitan area on May 18, 2021, from a person with no history of overseas travel. Further investigation revealed that a virus very similar to this one was found in an airport quarantine on April 16th.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases is estimated to have spread from one source from overseas, centered on the Tokyo metropolitan area, and then spread nationwide.

On the other hand, many of the clusters of delta strains that were confirmed in Kanto, Kansai, Chubu, Kyushu, etc. around May 2021, which are thought to have flowed in from overseas, did not lead to a large spread of infection, and did not lead to a large spread of infection until around early July. It means that it is almost settled in .

Ryuji Wakita, Director of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said, ``Even in the past domestic epidemics, they have spread nationwide from one starting point, and it is possible that the same thing is happening this time.'' talking

Delta strain Almost 90% of all infections in the Tokyo metropolitan area

The highly contagious mutated new coronavirus "Delta strain" has already reached nearly 90% of all infections in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and even in the Kansai area. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has summarized the results of the estimation that replacement is progressing rapidly, such as accounting for more than 60%.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases based on the data of the "mutant strain screening test" of seven private inspection companies, how much the virus containing the "L452R" mutation found in the delta strain accounts for what percentage? On the 4th, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting presented the results of the estimation.

According to that, delta stocks already account for 90% in Tokyo, and 89% in the three prefectures in the metropolitan area, including Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba, and almost all will be replaced by the end of this month. is.

Also, in Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo prefectures, two prefectures in the Kansai region, the number was low until the beginning of last month, but it has spread rapidly to 63%, and by the end of this month, it will exceed 80%. I'm doing it.

Furthermore, it has been pointed out that the replacement rate is progressing in various places, such as 89% in Okinawa Prefecture and 85% in Fukuoka Prefecture, and the number of hospitalized patients is increasing rapidly, leading to a tight medical situation.

Takaji Wakita, chairman of the expert meeting, said, "The delta strain is about twice as infectious as conventional viruses, and it is difficult to control it even if the same measures are taken with the same strength as before.Infection is sudden. In expanding areas, we have no choice but to limit the flow of people and reduce opportunities for person-to-person contact."

Back to Table of Contents

Rapid increase in patients under the age of 50 infected with the delta strain.

The spread of the new coronavirus is unstoppable, and at a university hospital that treats severely ill patients in the Tokyo metropolitan area, patients infected with the highly contagious mutated virus "Delta strain" confirmed in India. , and 80% of patients are under the age of 50, who have not been vaccinated. Physicians on the ground are feeling a sense of urgency.

At the Saitama Medical University General Medical Center in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, there are critically ill patients who need ventilators and moderately ill patients whose conditions have deteriorated at other hospitals and require more specialized treatment. We are working on it.

At this hospital, as of July 20, there were 9 inpatients, ▽ 2 in their 60s or older, ▽ 3 in their 50s, ▽ 3 in their 40s, ▽ 1 in their 30s, 80% of the population is under the age of 50.

Of these, six are infected with the highly contagious 'delta strain' confirmed in India, and another is a family member of a patient infected with the delta strain who is being tested. is.

A man in his 50s with delta strain who was hospitalized last week had no underlying medical conditions, but was brought to the hospital after a rapid deterioration in blood oxygen levels two days after onset.

It means that the symptoms of pneumonia are so widespread that people cannot take in enough oxygen without using an oxygen mask.

Professor Hideaki Oka of the Department of Infectious Diseases said, ``Since last week, all hospitalized patients have become delta strains without exception, and have been rapidly replaced in two weeks. But I think it's one of the data that it will get worse.Since the symptoms are more severe in people in their 40s and 50s, although not as much as in the elderly, if the spread of vaccines is not progressing and the infection situation worsens, medical care will be tight in the future. It will happen," he said with a sense of crisis.

On top of that, ``The reason why the percentage of elderly people is small is that we are realizing the effectiveness of the vaccine, and if the vaccine spreads to people in their 40s and 50s, we can expect to fight against Corona. It will be a long vacation, not just for the Olympics, but I want you to take thorough infection control measures."

Introduction of oxygen equipment in preparation for the rapid increase in home care

Ahead of the opening of the Tokyo Olympics, as the spread of the new coronavirus continues, the public health center in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, will In preparation for an increase in the number of people who cannot be hospitalized and are forced to recuperate at home, we have secured a device that can inhale oxygen at home and will lend it out.

The spread of the new coronavirus has not stopped, and in July, the number of infected patients in Tokyo's Sumida Ward has increased rapidly, and even the younger generation who were recuperating at home worsened their symptoms and required hospitalization. It means that there are also cases where it becomes

In Sumida Ward, in preparation for the increasing number of people who cannot be hospitalized and have to recuperate at home due to the shortage of hospital beds, 3 "oxygen concentrators" that can concentrate and inhale oxygen even at home have been installed. , the ward will secure it and lend it out 24 hours a day.

On July 21, the medical device manufacturer and the person in charge of the public health center held a meeting at the ward office to confirm how to use the device. I made sure to do it.

In addition to the existing 300 "pulse oximeters" that measure how much oxygen is taken into the body, secure 400 new units to strengthen support for home care patients. to

Itaru Nishizuka, head of the Sumida Ward Public Health Center, said, "In the future, if there is a shortage of beds, we are taking measures so that oxygen therapy can be started immediately at home, so even during the Olympics, corona measures will remain unchanged. I want you to go," he said.

Doctor ``Refrain from moving due to unvaccinated patients''

Regarding the current situation in the medical field just before the opening of the Tokyo Olympics, which doctors are treating patients with the new coronavirus in Tokyo? , It is said that the number of hospitalized patients is rapidly increasing among those who have not been vaccinated and those who have just been vaccinated.

In order to prevent the spread of infection, we are appealing to refrain from traveling during the summer vacation and cheering for the Olympics with a large number of people.

According to Dr. Shinichiro Morioka of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine, the number of hospitalization requests has increased rapidly in the past one or two weeks, and as of July 20, there are more than 30 hospitalized patients, and the number of beds available. This means that more than 70% of

The relatively young generation in their 30s to 50s accounts for 70% of the hospitalized patients, and it is said that there are cases where obese people in particular become severely ill.

Dr. I see and hear on SNS that it's okay, and there are many people who actually take action and get infected, and as a medical worker, I feel very sad." We are appealing to make a judgment and take basic infection measures.

At the center, from July 19th, a doctor from a different department will treat mildly ill patients. As the infection spreads further, I am concerned that the medical field will be placed in a difficult situation again.

Dr. Morioka said, "The highly contagious 'delta strain' has increased, and if we do not reduce person-to-person contact more than when we declared a state of emergency so far, we may not be able to obtain the effect of suppressing infection. I would like people to support the Olympics at home with the people they usually have with them.I can understand the feeling of wanting to meet people who you don't usually see because of the four-day weekend and the Olympics, but traveling from Tokyo to other regions will spread the coronavirus. Infections related to movement have occurred before, so it is a earnest request from the medical field to take it seriously and act."

Back to Table of Contents

U.S. mutated virus infection spread 43% increase in infected people per day compared to the previous week (7/16)

July 16, 2021

In the United States, the mutated virus confirmed in India has spread, and the average number of infected people per day has increased significantly by 43% compared to the previous week.

The US government is becoming more vigilant as the spread of false information about the new coronavirus and vaccines is a threat to spread the infection.

According to the CDC = Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the "delta strain" of the mutated virus confirmed in India spread rapidly in the United States, and is estimated to account for approximately 58% of infections.

The seven-day average number of infected people reported on the first day was 21,420 as of July 14, a significant increase of 43% compared to the previous week, and hospitalization The number of people who did it also increased by 26% to 2507 people.

The number of infected people has increased by more than 10% in 42 of the 50 states in the United States, and the increase is particularly serious in the South and Midwest, where vaccination rates are low.

The U.S. Surgeon General Mercy said at a press conference on July 15, ``False information about the new coronavirus and vaccines is a threat to spread the infection,'' and erroneous information spread on social media. It was pointed out that being prevented from improving the vaccination rate.

In addition to asking the public not to spread such information, they also asked social media operators to take stronger measures.

Back to Table of Contents

Corona infection situation Remarkable expansion in the Tokyo metropolitan area “Delta stocks” surge to 1.7 times (7/14)

July 14, 2021

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting to advise on measures against the new coronavirus was held for the first time since the fourth state of emergency was declared in Tokyo.

At the expert meeting, the current infection situation was evaluated as "the spread of infection in the metropolitan area centered on Tokyo is remarkable, and there is concern about the impact on the surrounding area and the whole country."

In addition, regarding the mutated new coronavirus "delta strain" found in India, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare conducted genetic analysis of some samples of infected people, and as a result, it was confirmed in the week until July 12 We found that it surged to about 1.7 times the previous week.

The number of infected people in the Tokyo metropolitan area is about two-thirds of the whole country

By region, the number of new infections continues to increase in Tokyo, and the majority are in their 20s to 40s. , the number of hospitalized patients continues to increase.

The number of severely ill people in Tokyo in their 40s and 50s is at the same level as the previous peak of the fourth wave of infection, and it is expected that it will take at least two weeks for the declaration of a state of emergency to take effect. Therefore, it is necessary to secure a medical system that assumes the spread of infection.

Currently, the number of infected people in the Tokyo metropolitan area accounts for about two-thirds of the whole country, and it is said that thorough measures are necessary to prevent the spread of infection to the surrounding area and the whole country.

In Okinawa Prefecture, where the declaration continues, the number of new infections is on the decline, but the usage rate of critically ill beds continues to be severe, and it is necessary to continue to monitor it.

Furthermore, in Kansai, the spread of infection became clear in July, and the number of nighttime crowds in Osaka was in mid-March, just before the fourth wave of infection, which put medical care in a critical situation. It is feared that the spread of infection will continue at the same level.

In addition to the Tokyo metropolitan area and Kansai, the number of infected people is increasing in Hokkaido, Aichi, and Fukuoka, and there are concerns about a rebound.

Mutant virus "Delta strain" Nearly half in Tokyo The proportion of the whole country is about 11%, and it is said that replacement will progress in the future, and according to the estimated data presented by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, it is nearly half in Tokyo.

For this reason, in order to prevent the spread of infection in the Tokyo metropolitan area from spreading to various places, the expert meeting should be cautious about returning home or traveling across prefectural borders even during four consecutive holidays, summer holidays, and Obon holidays. I called.

In addition, it has been suggested that the risk of infection increases by participating in multiple dinners involving a large number of people, eating and drinking for a long time, and clusters have occurred in workplaces and schools. I emphasized once again that it is necessary to take thorough infection control measures in such places.

The number of people infected with the "delta strain" surged 1.7 times

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare requested local governments nationwide to extract some samples from people infected with the new coronavirus, and provide more details than the PCR test. We are investigating the spread of the mutant virus using genetic analysis.

As a result of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's tally of reports received from local governments for the week ending July 12, a total of 133 people nationwide were infected with the "delta strain" of the mutated virus found in India. It means that I understand.

53 people, 66% higher than reported in the previous week.

▽ Tokyo has the most 38 people, followed by ▽ Chiba Prefecture with 28 people, ▽ Osaka Prefecture with 13 people, ▽ Saitama Prefecture with 7 people, ▽ Kanagawa Prefecture, Kagoshima Prefecture, Okinawa Prefecture with 6 people ▽ Tottori Prefecture 5 people, ▽4 people in Ibaraki, Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures ▽3 people in Aichi prefecture ▽2 people in Yamanashi and Fukuoka prefectures ▽1 each in Tochigi, Ishikawa, Gifu, Shizuoka and Hiroshima prefectures was.

There is also data suggesting that the Delta strain is spreading further.

As a result of PCR tests on infected people by local governments nationwide, it was confirmed that they were infected with the new coronavirus with the same "L452R" mutation as the delta strain in the week until July 12. A total of 2,450 people nationwide, a 1.7-fold increase compared to the previous week.

Increasing trend of new infections

According to the materials presented at the expert meeting, the number of new infections nationwide in the week ending July 13 was 1.32 compared to the previous week. doubled, showing a marked increase.

In Tokyo, where a state of emergency has been declared, the number is increasing by 1.31 times, while in Okinawa Prefecture, the number is decreasing by 0.86 times.

Among areas where priority measures such as epidemic prevention have been applied, in the Tokyo metropolitan area, ▼ Kanagawa prefecture increased by 1.47 times, ▼ Saitama prefecture by 1.28 times, ▼ Chiba prefecture by 1.21 times, and ▼ Osaka prefecture by 1.41 times. trend is becoming more pronounced.

Currently, the number of new infections per 100,000 people in the week until July 13th was 39.75 in Tokyo, the only place in Japan with the most serious infection, Stage 4. ▼ Kanagawa Prefecture has 24.07 people, ▼ Okinawa Prefecture has 23.06 people, and ▼ Chiba Prefecture has 19.17 people, exceeding the standard of 15 people for “Stage 3”.

▼There are 11.91 people nationwide.

Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Tamura "Infection is spreading again nationwide" Not only Tokyo, but also the three surrounding prefectures continue to increase.Okinawa continues to decrease, but the rate of hospital bed occupancy for seriously ill patients is still severe.Furthermore, infections are increasing in Kansai, Hokkaido, Aichi, and Fukuoka. There is a movement to turn to , and the re-expansion of infection is spreading nationwide."

On top of that, ``As the season for returning home and traveling comes, I would like you to be careful about meeting people you don't usually meet.Also, thoroughly avoid high-risk behavior such as drinking with multiple people. I would like to ask the people of Japan for their cooperation."

Chairman Wakita ``Avoid going out as much as possible during the four consecutive holidays, the Olympics, and summer vacation.'' Although the number of people hospitalized is not so large, the proportion of people in their 40s and 50s who become seriously ill is increasing. If the number of infected people increases, the number of hospitalizations will increase and the number of hospital beds will become tighter. It's important to keep it under control," he said.

In addition, about the future, Chairperson Wakita said, "At today's meeting, there was a discussion that it is important not only to reduce the flow of people but also to reduce the opportunities for contact between people as much as possible.The delta strain of the mutant virus has increased. There is a possibility that the number of infected people will continue to increase for some time.Because there are four consecutive holidays, the Olympics, and summer vacation, please refrain from going out as much as possible. I want you to watch the game on TV while spending time with a small number of people."

“We are at a critical moment now that the infection control measures we have taken so far are no longer effective”

The number of new coronavirus infections confirmed in Tokyo on the 1st was 1,000 on July 14. Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert panel on surpassing people, said, ``Before the declaration of a state of emergency, it seems that the increase in the flow of people due to self-restraint fatigue etc. In particular, clusters have occurred at corporate meetings and dinners, and at educational sites through extracurricular activities, etc. It seems that the infection is spreading widely in daily life rather than in a specific area." Did.

On top of that, ``there is a tendency to increase in people in their 40s and 50s, who have not yet been vaccinated and have underlying diseases. It should be noted that the number has increased since the 3rd and 4th waves of the virus, which means that the mutated virus "Delta strain" confirmed in India has been replaced, and the infection control measures so far have become ineffective. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 epidemic, it is most likely to spread now, especially among the younger generation. In order to prevent infection, it is important to take infection control more thoroughly than ever, and we are at a critical moment," he said, emphasizing the need to thoroughly implement infection control.

Furthermore, as the four consecutive holidays, summer vacation, and the Olympics are approaching, a point to note is, ``I think some people are planning to travel this summer, but don't cross prefectural borders, only family members. Please refrain from going to places where many people gather to cheer for the Olympics, and please watch the games with your family alone."

Back to Table of Contents

Indian type (delta stocks) Kanto already exceeds 30%, will exceed 70% by the end of July (7/10)

July 10, 2021

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases estimates that the ``delta strain'' of the new coronavirus mutation virus confirmed in India already accounts for more than 30% of the total in the Kanto region. It is expected that there will be more in the future, and many will be replaced by August.

This is what the National Institute of Infectious Diseases showed at an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on July 7th.

"Mutant strain" that examines how much of the "L452R" mutation found in the "Delta strain" confirmed in India is included among the new coronavirus-positive samples from six private testing companies Estimated based on the results of the screening test.

As a result, it was estimated that in Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, and Kanagawa, this mutated virus began to increase in mid-June, and already accounted for 34% of the total.

It is expected to increase further in the future, and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases estimates that it will reach 75% or more by the end of July, and most will be replaced by the end of August.

On the other hand, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo prefectures in the Kansai region are estimated to account for 12% of the total so far. I thought there was.

When the infectivity was analyzed, it was estimated that this mutant virus was about 1.4 times more likely to spread than the "alpha strain" of the mutant virus confirmed in the UK.

Regarding the results, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting pointed out, ``It is necessary to strengthen the nationwide monitoring system for the delta strain, and to suppress the spread of infection as much as possible through thorough inspections.'' doing.

Back to Table of Contents

"Delta stocks" "Replacement is progressing, signs of expansion..." Rage worldwide (7/7)

July 7, 2021

"There is a strong concern about the re-expansion of the infection" The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting pointed out the infection situation in the Tokyo metropolitan area, especially in Tokyo, where the number of infected people is increasing. Mutant virus is one of the factors. In Tokyo, a record 94 people were confirmed to be infected with a virus with the "L452R" mutation confirmed in India, such as the "delta strain" on July 6. Omi, chairman of the government's subcommittee, indicated a strong sense of crisis, pointing out that ``the shift to delta stocks is progressing, and there are signs that it is spreading among the young and middle-aged.'' .

Confirmed infection of 304 "Delta strains" nationwide

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has collaborated with local governments to extract some samples from people infected with the new coronavirus and analyze their genes. We are investigating the spread of mutated viruses.

According to this, a total of 80 people nationwide were infected with the "delta strain" of the mutated virus found in India during the week leading up to July 5 (June 29 to July 5). It means that I understand.

9 people, 12% more than the number reported in the previous week (June 22-28, 71 people).

To date, a total of 304 people have been confirmed to be infected in 20 prefectures nationwide. Here is the breakdown.

▽61 in Tokyo, 48 in Chiba, 41 in Kanagawa, 31 in Osaka, 27 in Aichi, 24 in Hyogo, 17 in Shizuoka, and 16 in Saitama. ▽ 10 people in Gunma prefecture ▽ 8 people in Hiroshima prefecture ▽ 4 people in Kagoshima prefecture ▽ 3 people in Kyoto prefecture, Nara prefecture, Okinawa prefecture ▽ 2 people in Ibaraki prefecture and Mie prefecture ▽ Niigata prefecture, Nagano prefecture, Gifu prefecture, Kagawa Prefecture has 1 person each

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare says that the local government may not have reported it yet, and the number may differ from the number announced by the local government.

Chairman Omi "September is one of the most important times"

Mutant viruses such as the "Delta strain" have been pointed out as one of the factors behind the resurgence of infections in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and the government On July 7, Chairman Omi of the subcommittee expressed a strong sense of crisis.

Chairman Omi commented on the state of infection in Tokyo during the closing examination of the House of Representatives Health, Labor and Welfare Committee, saying, "The replacement of the delta strain with the delta strain is progressing considerably, and the infection is spreading among young and middle-aged people. There are already signs that the disease is on the rise, and if the number of middle-aged people with severe symptoms increases, it is possible that there will be a medical strain."

On top of that, "I think that July to September is one of the most important periods in Japan's efforts to combat the coronavirus. With summer vacation, Obon, and the Olympics and Paralympics coming up, infections are spreading in the Tokyo metropolitan area. While doing so, there is concern that it may spread the infection to other areas," he said, emphasizing the need to take effective measures.

In addition, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting also said that there is "strong concern about the re-expansion of infection" regarding the infection situation in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and while multiple clusters of "delta strains" have occurred, there will be no replacement in the future. I pointed out that we need to keep an eye on it as we go forward.

"Delta strain" reported in 104 countries/regions

Infection with "delta strain" is spreading worldwide. According to the WHO = World Health Organization report, as of July 6th, the number of countries and regions with reports of "delta strain" has increased by 7 compared to the previous week to 104.

WHO has announced the number of countries and regions where this mutated virus has been reported since April 2021, and as of April 27, at least 17 countries, including India and the United States, have increased to approximately A month later, at the end of May, the number had increased to 60 countries and regions, and a month later at the end of June, it had expanded to 96 countries and regions.

Other mutated viruses...

Other mutated viruses are: ▽ The number of countries and regions with reports of "beta strains" confirmed in South Africa increased by 3 from the previous week to 122. ▽ Countries and regions with reports of "gamma strains" confirmed in Brazil increased to 122. This is 74, an increase of 2 from the previous week.

The report states that the number of new infections worldwide has increased for the second week in a row, and that it is necessary to continue monitoring the situation of the mutated virus as it continues to spread.

Severe infection In Indonesia...

One of the countries where the delta strain is rampant is Indonesia. Due to the spread of the "delta strain", on July 7, 34,379 new confirmed cases were confirmed in Indonesia, and the number of deaths exceeded 1,000. Japanese people living in the area have also died.

Chieko Nakano, who has lived in the capital Jakarta since 2002 and is the editor-in-chief of a lifestyle information magazine for Japanese people, said, "With the number of infected people increasing rapidly from the end of June, people I know Unfortunately, he also passed away.Japanese people are well-nourished and many people are very careful about infection control.However, seeing that they died of infection, I wondered what kind of measures I should take. I feel uneasy," he said.

Also, regarding the significant movement restrictions that have been in place in Jakarta since July 3, he said, "This is the first time in 19 years that so many streets have been blocked. I feel the situation is abnormal."

While shopping malls are closed, supermarkets are open and there are no signs of shortages or confusion.

As the infection spreads, regarding information such as vaccinations for foreigners, he said, ``In Indonesia, information is easy to get confused and changes a lot.

Back to Table of Contents

Expansion of the highly contagious "delta strain" Other mutated viruses one after another... (6/30)

June 30, 2021

By June 30th, more than 300 people in Tokyo were confirmed to be infected with the virus with the "L452R" mutation that was confirmed in India. Among the viruses with this "L452R" mutation, the most spreading type is called the "delta strain" and the infection is expanding. However, the existence of other mutant viruses has now been revealed one after another.

“Indian type” More than 300 confirmed infections in Tokyo

In Tokyo, on June 30, 55 new people in Tokyo were confirmed in India, a virus with the “L452R” mutation. announced that it was confirmed to be infected with

This was the second largest number announced on the 1st, and now 349 people in Tokyo have been confirmed to be infected with this virus.

The first confirmed infection with this mutated virus in Tokyo was on April 20, 2021, exceeding 300 people in 72 days.

The virus with the "N501Y" mutation confirmed in the UK has exceeded 300 people in about 80 days since the first infection was confirmed in Tokyo in January 2021.

The virus with the "L452R" mutation, which is said to be highly infectious, reached 300 people about a week early.

The virus with the "N501Y" mutation exceeded 1000 people nine days after exceeding 300 people.

"Delta strain" Infection reports doubled in a week...

Of the three types of mutated viruses with the "L452R" mutation, the type that spreads the most is the "delta strain." ” is called.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, it was found that a total of 71 people nationwide were infected with the "delta strain" in the week until June 28. That's 35, or 97% more than the number reported in the previous week.

A total of 224 people confirmed to be infected in 15 prefectures nationwide

To date, a total of 224 people in 15 prefectures have been confirmed to be infected.

▽ 42 in Tokyo ▽ 40 in Kanagawa ▽ 31 in Chiba ▽ 24 in Aichi ▽ 19 in Hyogo ▽ 18 in Osaka ▽ 14 in Shizuoka ▽ 13 in Saitama ▽ 10 people in Gunma Prefecture ▽ 8 people in Hiroshima Prefecture ▽ 1 person each in Nagano Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, Mie Prefecture, Kagawa Prefecture, and Kagoshima Prefecture.

Mutant virus There are 4 types of "mutant strains of concern = VOC"

WHO = World Health Organization ▽ Increased infectivity ▽ Increased severity of infection and ▽ Vaccine effect We are calling for international vigilance against mutated viruses that are thought to have undergone changes in nature, such as declines, as "concerned mutant strains = VOCs."

In addition, the WHO has proposed calling mutated viruses with Greek letters to prevent discriminatory treatment of specific countries, and as of June 30, there are 4 types of mutated viruses that have been designated as "VOC".

“Indian type” and “Delta strain”

The WHO identified the most widespread of the three types of mutated viruses with the “L452R” mutation found in India as the “Delta strain.” is called VOC.

It is said that the infectivity is increasing, and it has been pointed out that the risk of hospitalization if infected is increasing.

An analysis conducted in the UK shows that it is 50% more infectious than the mutated virus "alpha strain" found in the UK.

In India, the infection spread explosively around April 2021, but along with the fact that there were religious and cultural events where many people gathered, the mutated virus is thought to be one of the causes of the spread. It is

About the efficacy of the vaccine The WHO summary shows that the Pfizer vaccine had no or minimal impact on the ability to neutralize the virus.

According to the WHO report, as of June 29, 96 countries and territories reported the delta strain, an increase of 11 from the previous week.

“British type” “alpha strain”

The “alpha strain” of the mutated virus found in the UK was first reported in early December 2020 and has since spread around the world.

It is known that this virus has a mutation called "N501Y" in the "spike protein".

This means that the 501st amino acid of the "spike protein" has been replaced from asparagine (abbreviation N) to tyrosine (abbreviation Y).

According to the information compiled by WHO, this mutant virus is more contagious than the conventional virus, and the risk of hospitalization, severe illness and death is higher.

On the other hand, Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines do not have a big impact on the effectiveness of vaccines.

According to the WHO report, as of June 29, there were 172 countries and territories reporting 'alpha strains', an increase of 2 from the previous week.

“South African Type” “Beta Strain”

The mutant virus first found in South Africa is called “Beta Strain”.

It was said to have occurred in May 2020, and an analysis conducted in South Africa in mid-November suggests that most of them were this mutant virus.

In addition to the ``N501Y'' mutation, there is also a ``E484K'' mutation that escapes antibody attack, so there are concerns about the impact on the efficacy of the vaccine.

According to the WHO summary, there is a wide range of studies from studies that show that the effects of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are minimal to studies that show that they are significantly reduced.

According to the WHO report, as of June 29, 120 countries and territories had reported "beta strains", an increase of one from the previous week.

“Brazilian type” “gamma strain”

The mutant virus that spread in Brazil is called “gamma strain”. It was first detected in a person arriving in Japan from Brazil on January 6, 2021.

In Brazil, it was confirmed in November 2020 samples, and according to WHO, as of March and April 2021, 83% of the samples in Brazil that had undergone a detailed genetic examination were 83%.

Similar to the 'beta strain' confirmed in South Africa, in addition to 'N501Y', it is known that there is also a 'E484K' mutation that escapes antibody attack.

According to the WHO summary, studies have reported that the vaccines of Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca have had little to moderate effects.

According to the WHO report, as of June 29th, 72 countries and territories had reported cases of the "gamma strain", an increase of 1 from the previous week.

There are 7 types of "mutant strains to watch out for = VOI"

Mutant viruses that have been found to cross the border are called "mutant strains to watch out for = VOI", and there are 7 types of mutant viruses that can be positioned in this category.

"Epsilon strain"

▽"Epsilon strain" confirmed in California, USA in March 2021. Mutation of "L452R" has occurred like "delta strain" confirmed in India.

"Zeta strain"

▽"Zeta strain" A mutant virus detected in Brazil in March 2020.

"Eta strain"

▽"Eta strain" A mutant virus that was first confirmed in the UK in December 2020.

"Theta strain"

▽"Theta strain" A mutant virus found in the Philippines, 7 cases of which have been detected in quarantine in Japan.

"Iota strain"

▽"Iota strain" A mutant virus found in New York, USA.

"Kappa Strain"

▽"Kappa Strain" Mutant virus found in India.

'Strain Lambda'

▽'Strain Lambda' New 'VOI' mutated virus on June 14, first reported in Peru. According to WHO, as of June 15, 2021, it has been reported from 29 countries and regions, especially in South America such as Peru, Chile, and Argentina. It means that we still don't know much about the infectivity and the impact on the efficacy of the vaccine.

*The country that should have been South America was changed to "South Africa", so it has been corrected. excuse me.

Back to Table of Contents

Delta strain estimated to be 1.95 times more infectious in Japan Kyoto University professor et al. analysis (6/24)

June 24, 2021

Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University and others have summarized the analysis results that the new coronavirus mutation virus confirmed in India is estimated to be 1.95 times more infectious in Japan than the conventional virus.

This analysis was conducted by a group led by Professor Kimito Ito of Hokkaido University and Professor Nishiura of Kyoto University.

The group analyzed the status of the mutated virus in Japan using the international database of the new coronavirus and the analysis results of the PCR test in Tokyo.

As a result, the infectivity of the "delta strain" of the mutated virus confirmed in India is compared to that of the conventional virus in terms of the "effective reproduction number", which indicates how many people one person infects. It was estimated that it was 1.95 times higher than

Also, based on the data so far, it is predicted that this mutant virus will exceed half of the total around July 12, and will account for 68.9% of the total by July 23, when the Tokyo Olympics begin. That's it.

Professor Nishiura said, ``The increase in data and the ability to conduct more detailed analysis resulted in a higher number of infections.In addition to lifting the state of emergency, considering the impact of the delta strain, the spread of infection are concerned," he commented.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus confirmed in India is the biggest threat US government chief medical adviser (6/23)

June 23, 2021

Dr. Fauci, who is in charge of dealing with the new coronavirus in the US government, said that the sudden increase in the mutated virus confirmed in India in the United States is "the biggest threat to eliminating the new coronavirus." showed a feeling.

Dr. Fauci, the chief medical adviser of the US government, said at a press conference on June 22 that it is estimated that the delta strain of the mutated virus confirmed in India accounts for the new coronavirus detected in the United States. According to the report, the percentage of people who are using the Internet has increased sharply from 1.2% on May 8 to 20.6% on June 19.

On top of that, he said, "Not only is this mutated virus easier to spread, but it also tends to make symptoms more severe. It is the biggest threat to eliminating the new coronavirus." showed.

On the other hand, he said, ``It is believed that vaccines such as Pfizer continue to be effective against this mutated virus,'' and pointed out that it is important to further promote vaccination to suppress the spread of infection.

In the United States, more than 45% of the population has completed vaccination, but the pace of vaccination has slowed significantly compared to a period of time, and the challenge for the US government is to inoculate young generations with low vaccination rates. It is

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus “delta strain” in UK, Russia and India spreads rapidly (6/18)

June 18, 2021

In the UK, the mutated virus confirmed in India is spreading rapidly, and on June 17th, the number of infected people in a single day exceeded 10,000 for the first time since late February 2021.

Also, in Russia, the new coronavirus infection has spread again this month, and a senior government official revealed that the proportion of the delta strain of the mutated virus confirmed in India is increasing rapidly. bottom.

The number of infected people in the UK has exceeded 10,000 since late February

In the UK, the delta strain of the mutated virus confirmed in India has been expanding rapidly since May, and Prime Minister Johnson It just announced this week that it would postpone the lifting of most of the remaining restrictions in England for about a month.

According to health officials, the number of newly confirmed infections in the UK reached 11,007 on June 17, exceeding 10,000 for the first time since late February 2021.

The number of hospitalized people has exceeded 1000 and is increasing.

Health officials say the mutated virus is more contagious than the alpha strain identified in the UK and currently accounts for more than 90% of new infections.

There is also a survey result that many people who are confirmed to be infected are young people who have not been vaccinated. I am going to proceed.

Furthermore, it is analyzed that it is effective to inoculate 2 doses of the vaccine against the delta strain confirmed in India, and for those over the age of 40, the interval between vaccinations is shortened from a maximum of 12 weeks to 8 weeks. We are hurrying to respond.

The number of infected people in Russia exceeds 14,000, more than 60% more than the end of May

On the other hand, in Russia, more than 14,000 new infected people were confirmed on June 17, More than 60% more than at the end of May.

At the government's countermeasures meeting, the mayor of Moscow, the capital, pointed out that it took less than a few days for the number of new infections confirmed in the city to rise from 3,000 to 7,000 a day, and said, " "There has never been such a rapid increase," he said.

In addition, Director Popova of the Welfare Supervision Agency, who verifies the infection status at the government's countermeasures headquarters, said, ``In the past two weeks, the proportion of Indian strains has increased significantly,'' and the mutation virus confirmed in India. It has been revealed that the number of people infected with the delta strain is increasing rapidly.

In response to the resurgence of the infection, most private companies have closed this week in Moscow and emergency measures have been taken to limit the opening hours of restaurants, but so far there are no signs of convergence, and the capital city The infection situation is approaching the situation in December 2020, which was the worst.

Back to Table of Contents

Deregulation of corona countermeasures due to expansion of British Indian mutant strains postponed for about one month (6/15)

June 15, 2021

The British government has announced that it will postpone the plan to almost abolish the new coronavirus countermeasures for about a month, saying that the infection by the mutated virus confirmed in India is spreading rapidly in the country.

In England, where the capital city of London is located, the restrictions that have been continued as measures against the new coronavirus have been gradually relaxed since March 2021, and on June 21, almost all restrictions such as nightclub operations will be lifted. It was expected to be abolished.

However, since May, the delta strain of the mutated virus confirmed in India has expanded rapidly, and the number of infected people has exceeded 7,000 per day for the past week or so.

In response to this, Prime Minister Johnson announced on June 14th that he would postpone the lifting of the restrictions to July 19th, saying, "If the restrictions were lifted, the virus would outpace vaccination and thousands of people would be sacrificed. Such a situation could actually occur. The virus cannot be eradicated and must live together," he said, asking for understanding.

British health officials say this mutant virus is more infectious than the alpha strain identified in the UK, and currently accounts for more than 90% of new infections.

On the other hand, he expressed the view that two doses of the vaccine were effective against the delta strain confirmed in India, and by July 19, about two-thirds of the people over the age of 18 had two. In order to complete the number of vaccinations, the policy is to hurry up and take measures such as shortening the intervals between vaccinations.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus “Delta strain” 1.78 times more infectious, clusters in Tokyo (6/10)

June 10, 2021

"1.78 times" of the conventional new coronavirus. This is the result of an analysis of the infectivity of the delta strain, which is the most spreading of the new coronavirus mutations confirmed in India. Experts are calling for caution, saying, "Future measures need to assume a high degree of infection (of the Delta strain)."

In 74 countries and regions around the world

WHO = On May 31st, the World Health Organization announced that the main mutant viruses were identified by Greek letters in order to prevent discriminatory treatment of specific countries. We encouraged governments around the world to use the name.

Accordingly, the mutant virus first confirmed in the UK was 'Alpha', 'Beta' was confirmed in South Africa, 'Gamma' was confirmed in Brazil, and 'Gamma' was confirmed in India. The most expanding of these is delta.

According to WHO, the number of countries and regions where reports of the mutated virus "delta strain" confirmed in India were reported was 74 as of June 8, an increase of 12 compared to the previous week. rice field.

In addition, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, in Japan, it was reported that a total of 34 people from 8 prefectures were infected with the mutated virus confirmed in India in the week until June 7th. about it.

10 more than the number confirmed in the previous week.

More than 30% of the “delta strain” tested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government

On the other hand, mutations confirmed in India in a screening test conducted by a research institute in Tokyo during the week ending June 6 The virus "delta strain" has risen to more than 30%, the highest number ever.

The Tokyo Health and Safety Research Center analyzed a total of 38 samples in a screening test that examines samples extracted from some of the new positives in the week until June 6th. As a result, the mutated virus "Delta strain" confirmed in India was detected in 12 cases, or 31.6%.

11 of the 12 cases are clusters that have been confirmed since June 8th at junior high schools. Infections among junior high school students and their families have been confirmed one after another.

In addition, 19, or 50%, were the mutated virus "alpha strain" found in the UK, and the remaining 7 were the conventional virus.

Mr. Mitsuo Kaku, chairman of the "expert board" of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and specially appointed professor of Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, said that the "delta strain" had reached more than 30%, saying, "The occurrence of clusters has a great influence. However, the delta strain is 1.5 times more infectious than the alpha strain, so it is highly possible that it will be replaced in the future. I have to,' he said. In addition, the Tokyo metropolitan government announced that the virus in Tokyo was almost replaced by the "alpha strain", and that the screening test that was investigating whether it was the "alpha strain" was switched to the "delta strain".

Infectivity is 1.78 times that of conventional viruses

How infective is this mutant virus?

The results of an analysis conducted by a group led by Professor Kimito Ito of Hokkaido University and Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University were presented at an expert meeting of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare on the 9th.

The group uses an international database of new coronaviruses to analyze changes in the number of mutated viruses registered in Japan. As a result, it was found that the infectivity of the mutated virus "Delta strain" confirmed in India was "1.78 times" compared to the conventional virus.

In addition, although it is a trial calculation from the data so far, it is predicted that this mutant virus will account for more than half of the total number of new coronaviruses in Japan by mid-July. .

Professor Nishiura said, "Although it is necessary to update the analysis with the latest information, we have learned that the delta strain is highly infectious even from data in Japan. It is necessary to assume the height, ”he cautions.

"Medical system is under strain"

Also, at a monitoring meeting held in Tokyo on June 10, Masataka Inoguchi, vice president of the Tokyo Medical Association, said, "Infection with the delta strain" If it spreads, the medical care system will be strained at once. Now, medical workers are being forced to get vaccinated and there is really no spare capacity.I would like to ask for everyone's cooperation to prevent the spread of infection.

Does the vaccine work?

While the WHO says that there are still limited reports on the effectiveness of the vaccine against this mutant virus, ▼ the effect of reducing the effect of preventing the onset of the disease is due to Pfizer's vaccine and In AstraZeneca's vaccine, it is said that there is "almost none", and the amount of neutralizing antibody that suppresses the action of the virus is also reduced to some extent in Pfizer's vaccine and Moderna's vaccine, but it is said that there is a sufficient amount.

Among them, in a report issued by the British government on May 22, 2021, regarding the effect of preventing the onset of the disease, the mutated virus "alpha strain" confirmed in the United Kingdom was vaccinated twice with Pfizer's vaccine. 93% in , and 66% after two doses of AstraZeneca vaccine

whereas

For the mutated virus "Delta strain" confirmed in India, ▽ Pfizer's vaccine is 88% ▽ AstraZeneca's vaccine is 60%. is.

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona Mutant Virus Spreading in India, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Increases Vigilance (6/9)

June 9, 2021

Regarding the mutated new coronavirus spreading in India, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that 34 new infections were reported nationwide in the week ending June 7. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is on high alert, with 10 more than the number reported last week.

In order to investigate the spread of mutated viruses, local governments nationwide are analyzing genes by sending some samples of people infected with the new coronavirus to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, it was reported that a total of 34 people were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus "Delta strain" spreading in India from 8 prefectures in the week until June 7th. is.

10 more than the number confirmed in the previous week.

By prefecture, ▼ Tokyo has the most 9, followed by ▼ Hiroshima with 6, ▼ Chiba, Kanagawa and Hyogo with 5, ▼ Shizuoka with 2 ▼ Gunma and Saitama was one person each.

A total of 87 people have been confirmed to be infected in Japan so far, ▼ 23 in Tokyo, 12 in Chiba, 11 in Hyogo, 9 in Osaka, and Kanagawa. There are 8 ▼Shizuoka and Hiroshima prefectures with 7, ▼Saitama with 4, ▼Gunma and Aichi with 2, ▼Nagano and Kagoshima with 1 each.

In mid-July, experts predict that more than half of the new coronaviruses confirmed in Japan will be "delta strains", and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has strengthened its nationwide inspection system. I'm here.

In addition, by June 7th, 23 people nationwide were infected with the mutated virus "delta strain" found in South Africa, and 81 people were infected with the mutated virus "gamma strain" found in Brazil. are confirmed respectively.

New coronavirus vaccine “workplace vaccination” preparations underway

The government plans to start worksite vaccination at workplaces and universities from June 21, starting with companies with more than 1000 employees. I'm going to start with

Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance, headquartered in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, will target a total of 12,000 employees in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, as well as employees of affiliated companies. I applied from the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

The company's headquarters in Shibuya plans to use the cafeteria as a vaccination venue, and today I sent an email to employees to inform them about occupational vaccinations.

The company considers employees to be working while they are away from the workplace for vaccinations, and wants to create an environment where employees can actively receive vaccinations.

Ikuko Hyodo, General Manager of Human Resources Department of "Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance" said, "We are making preparations while running with a sudden response, but we would like to work to ensure that our employees are vaccinated safely." .

Back to Table of Contents

One suspected new mutation virus not confirmed in Tokyo confirmed (6/4)

June 4, 2021

The Tokyo metropolitan government announced at a monitoring meeting on June 4 that, apart from quarantine at the airport, one suspected new mutation virus that had never been confirmed in Japan was confirmed. .

According to the Tokyo metropolitan government, it was confirmed that the virus was suspected of having the "L452R" mutation and lacking some "spike proteins".

Other than quarantine at the airport, it has never been confirmed in the country.

It was confirmed as a result of analysis by the Tokyo Health and Safety Research Center of a sample of a man in his 50s who returned from North Africa in mid-May.

It means that the man has no close contact and has already finished treatment.

According to the Tokyo metropolitan government, this virus has already been confirmed in 34 countries, including Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom, but the details of the actual situation are unknown, and the metropolitan government is working with the government to further advance genome analysis. is.

At the monitoring meeting, it was also reported that 28 people in Tokyo had been confirmed to be infected with a virus with a mutation of "L452R" found in India.

In addition, the virus with the ``N501Y'' mutation increased the positive rate by more than 1 point to about 83% compared to the previous week, and experts analyzed that it was ``the main cause of infection.'' increase.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus spreading in India 24 new infections confirmed in Japan (6/2)

June 2, 2021

Regarding the mutated new coronavirus spreading in India, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that 24 new infections were confirmed in the country in the week ending May 31.

Regarding people who have been confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus, local governments nationwide are extracting some samples and analyzing the genes at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, etc., to investigate the spread of the mutated virus.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, it was newly confirmed that 24 people were infected with the mutated virus spreading in India in the week until May 31st.

Three more than the number confirmed in the previous week.

By prefecture, ▽9 in Tokyo, ▽3 in Osaka and Saitama, ▽2 in Aichi and Hyogo, ▽Gunma, Chiba, Kanagawa, Nagano, and Kagoshima. , each of which is one person.

A total of 53 people have been confirmed to be infected in Japan so far, ▼ 14 in Tokyo, ▼ 9 in Osaka, ▼ 7 in Chiba, ▼ 6 in Hyogo, ▼ There are 5 in Shizuoka, 3 in Saitama and Kanagawa, 2 in Aichi, 1 each in Gunma, Nagano, Hiroshima and Kagoshima.

In addition, by May 31st, it was confirmed that 79 people were infected with the mutated virus found in Brazil and 23 people were infected with the mutated virus in South Africa.

On the other hand, as of May 24, 11,235 people were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus that was first found in the UK, but the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has already confirmed that the conventional virus has already spread to most areas. Considering that it has been replaced, we have stopped counting by prefecture.

Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Strengthens Nationwide Testing System

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is strengthening its nationwide testing system in an effort to quickly detect the mutated new coronavirus confirmed in India. I'm here.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases developed a method to determine whether it is an Indian mutated virus by PCR test, and on May 21, it was deployed to public health institutes nationwide.

It was introduced on a trial basis at some private testing institutions, and as a result of examining 104 specimens over the two days of May 28th and 29th, the Indian mutation virus was detected in 18 people. is.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare aims to test about 40% of people infected with the new coronavirus.

In addition, as a result of promoting technology transfer to rural areas, 13 local public health institutes across the country are now able to analyze the genetics of viruses, and preparations are underway to implement it at 22 more locations. is.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus that has not been confirmed so far in Japan Confirmed in Kobe (6/1)

June 1, 2021

Kobe City has announced that it has confirmed a new mutated virus of the new coronavirus that has not been confirmed so far in Japan. The mutated virus spreading in the UK has further mutated, and Kobe City says that the characteristics such as the infectivity and the risk of aggravation have not changed.

According to Kobe City, on May 17, when a man in his 50s underwent a PCR test at a medical institution in the city, he was confirmed to be infected with the new corona.

When the city health science research institute conducted a genome analysis and examined it in detail, it was confirmed that the mutated virus spreading in the UK was a further mutated virus, and it was confirmed for the first time in the country.

According to the city of Kobe, the man and his family have not been abroad recently, and it seems that it mutated in the man's body.

This time, about 150 cases of the new mutated virus confirmed in Kobe City have been confirmed overseas, mainly in Europe. It means that the characteristics such as risk do not change.

Deputy Director Yasunori Kumagai of the Kobe City Health Bureau said, "We will quickly discover a new mutated virus like this one and continue to take thorough measures to prevent the spread of infection."

Back to Table of Contents

Prevention of discrimination against specific countries such as WHO mutant virus name "Alpha" (6/1)

June 1, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has announced that the mutated new coronavirus should use the newly defined Greek letters such as "alpha" and "beta" to prevent discriminatory treatment of specific countries. We encouraged governments around the world.

On May 31, WHO announced new Greek letter names for the major mutated new coronaviruses that have been identified so far.

Of these, those designated as "mutants of concern" are: ▽ The mutated virus confirmed in the UK is `` Alpha '' ▽ The one confirmed in South Africa is `` Beta '' ▽ The one confirmed in Brazil is "Gamma" ▽The one confirmed in India is called "Delta".

Regarding the decision to use these new names, the WHO said, ``Using specific place names can be stigmatizing and discriminatory. "I encourage you to do so," explaining that it is to prevent discriminatory treatment of certain countries and citizens.

The WHO says that technical names such as "B.1.1.7" continue to be used among researchers, but point out that the general public finds them difficult to remember.

Regarding the name of the new coronavirus, China strongly protested that former President Trump of the United States continued to call it the "Chinese virus", and there was growing criticism that it induced violence and discrimination against Asian residents in the United States. rice field.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus to strengthen border measures Targeting immigrants from Vietnam etc. (5/31)

May 31, 2021

In response to the rapid spread of mutated virus infections in Vietnam and Malaysia, the government has decided to take measures to keep people entering from both countries in accommodation facilities secured by the country for 6 days after entering the country. Hardened.

Regarding the border control of the new coronavirus, the government has imposed a 14-day waiting period for people entering from six countries, including India, in response to the rapid spread of the mutated virus in India. Of these, we are taking measures called "suspension" to stay in accommodation facilities secured by the country for 10 days after entering the country.

Following this, the government has announced that it has detected a mutation different from the first confirmed virus in India, and Vietnam, where the authorities have announced that a mutation has occurred, and Malaysia, where the infection of the mutant virus is rapidly expanding. We have decided to impose a 6-day detention on each person entering the country.

In addition, we have decided to add Afghanistan to the 10-day detention measure, and to add immigrants from Thailand and parts of the United States to the 3-day period.

In both cases, they will be tested regularly for the virus during the period, and if they are negative, they will be asked to wait at home.

The government is making adjustments to start this measure from June 4th.

Back to Table of Contents

Significant increase in positive rate in airport quarantine Expert ``Strengthen border measures'' (5/26)

May 26, 2021

The percentage of people who entered the country from India and Nepal, where the mutated new coronavirus, which has been pointed out to be highly contagious, has been found to be positive in airport quarantine tests, and the positive rate has increased significantly since mid-April. I know it's going up.

In some cases, it seems that there are cases where it does not become positive at the timing of airport quarantine and slips through, and it is very important for experts to be able to quickly strengthen border measures when the positive rate rises. points out that it is important to

Since January 2021, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has been conducting antigen tests for all immigrants, and the results are summarized by country and region where they have stayed within the two weeks before entering the country.

Accordingly, until late March 2021, only one or two people who have stayed in India within the past two weeks have tested positive, with a positive rate of less than 1%. was transitioning.

However, in April, the positive rate rose to 1.57% in the week until April 3rd, 1.82% in the 10th, 4.30% in the 17th, and positive in the week until the 24th. 26 people became positive, the positive rate was 6.00%, and in the week until May 1, 36 people became positive, and the positive rate was 5.76%.

During this time, the government has taken a PCR test within 72 hours before leaving the country, requested to present a document showing that it was negative, and asked them to wait at home for 14 days after entering the country. However, from May 1, we started a measure to have people entering from India stay at the accommodation facility for 3 days even if they were negative in airport quarantine, but they did not test positive at the time of airport quarantine, and after a few days. It seems that there are cases where it becomes positive and slips through.

After that, among those who entered the country from India, 22 people were positive in the week until May 8, with a positive rate of 3.35%, and a similar mutation virus spread. By May 1, 31 people had tested positive, with a positive rate of 8.76%, and by May 8, 40 people had tested positive, with a positive rate of 7.60%.

Of those who tested positive for airport quarantine, those who entered the country from both countries accounted for 70.53% of the total by May 1st, and 75.61% by May 8th.

From May 10th, the government has taken measures such as having people entering from India and Nepal stay at the accommodation facility for 6 days even if the airport quarantine is negative.

Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert panel, said, ``At the end of March, one month before border measures were strengthened, a mutated virus spreading in India was detected in airport quarantine. After that, in April, the number of positive people and the positive rate increased, and originally, at this time, a review of strengthening the situation should have been carried out.Because the jurisdiction spans various ministries and agencies, it takes time to make decisions. In the future, in order to deal with mutated viruses, it is necessary to create a system that can quickly decide to strengthen measures based on the situation at airport quarantine.

Mutant virus from India Confirmed infection of 29 people Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that a total of 29 people were confirmed to be infected.

In order to detect mutated viruses at an early stage, local governments nationwide are extracting some samples from people who have been confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus and sending them to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

As a result of genetic analysis, a mutated virus that seems to be spreading in India was detected in a total of 29 people by May 24th.

The number has increased by 21 since the last announcement on May 18th.

By prefecture, there were 6 in Chiba and Osaka, 5 in Tokyo and Shizuoka, 4 in Hyogo, 2 in Kanagawa, and 1 in Hiroshima.

In the quarantine at the airport, 160 of the people who entered the country by May 7 have detected the mutated virus in India, and the government has extended the period from the 28th to the national accommodation after entering the country. We are strengthening our border measures, such as extending it to 10 days.

Expert "The virus may be spreading more easily than ever"

The mutated new coronavirus spreading in India is said to be more infectious than the mutated virus spreading in Japan. Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who is a member of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert panel, said, ``There is a possibility that the amount of virus contained in the droplets has increased, making it easier for the virus to spread.'' pointing out.

Professor Wada introduced a case of a highly contagious mutant virus that has become mainstream in Japan, and said, ``With a conventional virus, how many people in the family would be infected if one person was infected? However, there are more cases where the whole family is infected with the mutated virus.The points to prevent infection with the mutated virus are the same as before, but even if you wear a mask, you can spend an hour or two in a small room. If we talk about time, fine details will leak out. Thorough basic countermeasures will continue to be required.

Medical institutions starting screening tests

Some medical institutions in Tokyo have started screening tests to see if any of their patients have been infected with the Indian mutated virus.

At Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, from May 6th, all patients infected with the new coronavirus and hospitalized will be examined to see if they are infected with the mutated virus spreading in India. We are conducting a screening test.

Until now, we have been investigating mutated viruses found in the UK and other countries, but in April, we started this in response to the rapid spread of a new mutated virus in India.

As a result of testing 37 people by May 24, it was found that one person was infected with the Indo-type mutated virus.

This patient was temporarily severely ill and put on a ventilator, but the symptoms recovered after being administered antiviral drugs and anti-inflammatory drugs.

In comparison with the symptoms of patients infected with the British variant virus, no particular characteristics were observed.

The patient has no history of traveling abroad, and Hiroaki Takeuchi, an associate professor in the Department of Virus Control at Tokyo Medical and Dental University, who analyzed the patient, said, ``The patient was infected in the city, and there are people around him who have been infected with this mutant virus. It is quite possible,” he said.

On top of that, ``It is important to investigate the spread of the Indian-type mutated virus when considering what kind of medical system hospitals should develop in the future. If we don't, there's a good chance that it will follow the same path in a few months, just like the gradual spread of a British-type mutated virus."

Expert “Therapeutic drugs are effective, early administration is important”

In severe cases of the highly contagious mutated novel coronavirus spreading in Japan, It is said that the speed is faster than a normal virus.

Regarding this, Tsuneo Morishima, a visiting professor at Aichi Medical University who is familiar with the treatment of the new coronavirus, said, ``Mutant viruses have mutated protrusions and easily stick to human cells, so they can enter the lungs. There is a high possibility that many lung cells will be infected, and it is likely to become severe.In the process of infecting many cells, inflammation occurs due to an excessive immune response called cytokine storm, and the symptoms worsen.” talking

On top of that, regarding the three therapeutic drugs recognized in Japan, the antiviral drug remdesivir, and the inflammation-suppressing drugs dexamethasone and baricitinib, he said, ``The process of multiplication of the mutant virus in cells is the same as that of the conventional virus. Remdesivir prevents the virus from replicating inside cells, and the other two drugs work by suppressing and modulating aberrant immune responses, making them effective in treating mutated viruses. It is thought that there is

However, as the speed of becoming severe in a mutant virus infection is fast, "It is especially important to use remdesivir, which suppresses the growth of the virus, as soon as possible. Also, many cells are infected at once. However, it is said that the use of dexamethasone alone is difficult to suppress because a very intense cytokine storm occurs, so it is also important to perform treatment that suppresses immune runaway in combination with baricitinib." .

Furthermore, Visiting Professor Morishima said that there are still many unknowns about the mutated virus that is spreading in India, but although it seems that therapeutic drugs are effective, considering the ease of binding to cells, I pointed out that it may be necessary to treat with the same way of thinking as for the mutated virus found in England.

Reported in 60 countries and regions around the world WHO

WHO = The World Health Organization reported a new coronavirus with mutations that was first found in India on May 25. As of today, it has published a report that it covers 60 countries and regions around the world.

According to the WHO report, the number of reports of the mutated virus first found in India was 65 countries and regions in the world as of last week, but after scrutinizing the information, May 25 As of today, 60 countries and regions have been confirmed, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia.

This virus has multiple mutations that may increase its infectivity or reduce the function of antibodies that attack the virus. There is concern about the global spread of infection.

In addition, the number of countries and territories that reported the first confirmed mutated virus in the UK was 155 as of May 25, an increase of 4 compared to the previous week.

In addition, the number of countries and regions that reported the mutated virus confirmed in South Africa increased by 5 to 111, and the number of countries and regions that reported the mutated virus confirmed in Brazil increased by 1 to 62. .

The WHO says that it will take time for the vaccine to spread, and if the infection continues to spread, the possibility of new mutated viruses will increase, so it is important for individuals and society as a whole to take measures against infection. increase.

Back to Table of Contents

Professor Nishiura “Mutant virus found in India concerns about rapid spread” (5/21)

May 21, 2021

About the mutated virus found in India, Professor Hiroshi Nishiura of Kyoto University, based on the results of analyzing the situation of expansion overseas, spreads at a faster speed in Japan than the mutated virus found in the UK. I gave the view that it is possible.

Professor Nishiura submitted to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting held on May 19, a document analyzing the spread of a mutated virus found in India by an American virus expert abroad.

Accordingly, in India, among the viruses whose genomes were analyzed from March to April 2020, the proportion of mutated viruses found in the UK decreased at a pace of 0.75 times the previous week. , Among the mutated viruses found in India, those with the ``L452R'' mutation but without the ``E484Q'' mutation are increasing at a rate of 1.59 times.

The viruses for which genome analysis was performed are only a small part of the confirmed infections, but this type of mutated virus was small from February to March, but increased rapidly after March, In April, it accounted for nearly 60%, and it is said that the replacement from the previous virus is progressing rapidly.

Also, in an analysis of six Western countries, the percentage of mutated viruses found in India was about 1% in most cases, and the highest in the UK was about 10%. Although less common than viruses, it tends to grow rapidly.

According to Professor Nishiura, opinions are divided among experts in each country about how easily this mutant virus spreads compared to previous ones, but compared to the mutant virus found in the UK, There is also a trial calculation that it is 50% more infectious, and it is said that detailed analysis and countermeasures are necessary.

Professor Nishiura said, ``The mutated virus found in India is more infectious than the one found in the UK and is likely to be replaced around the world.It took about two months for the British virus to invade Japan. However, it is thought that the epidemic will suddenly start and spread in a shorter span than that."

Back to Table of Contents

Corona Mutant Virus “If the epidemic spreads to the elderly, the risk of serious illness will increase” (5/19)

May 19, 2021

While the number of severely ill patients with the new coronavirus has exceeded 1,200 nationwide, and the number of updates continues to reach a record high, at hospitals that treat patients, the infection of the mutated virus is spreading among the younger generation, but the epidemic is expected to spread to the elderly in the future. There is a growing sense of crisis that if it spreads to more people, the risk of serious illness will increase.

At the Saitama Medical University General Medical Center in Kawagoe City, the number of patients with the new coronavirus has increased rapidly since the end of the long holidays, and all three rooms in the intensive care unit for severely ill patients were filled, and the ward for moderately ill patients was artificially artificial. We are forced to take measures such as using a respirator.

The number of patients with the mutated virus has also increased rapidly, and on May 17, when I interviewed, 10 of the 14 hospitalized people were infected with the mutated virus, excluding the 4 who were being tested. It means that there are cases where patients in their 40s who do not have underlying diseases become seriously ill.

Professor Hideaki Oka of the Department of Infectious Diseases said, ``Patients are very different from the third wave, and many are in their 40s and 50s and are working in society. , hope for aggressive treatment to save lives.

Dr.

Actually, in late April, this hospital continues to treat a woman in her 80s who was infected with a mutated virus from her son in her 50s who lives with her.

The woman had no subjective symptoms such as a high fever, and it was only after testing that she found that her pneumonia was worsening, and she was in a situation where she had to consider wearing a respirator.

Dr. In the future, even if there is a request for intensive care, it will happen that we cannot meet it, and if that happens, we will not be able to avoid the possibility that the mortality rate will increase."

Back to Table of Contents

U.K./India Mutant Virus Spreads in Some Areas, May Affect Deregulation (5/15)

May 15, 2021

British Prime Minister Johnson said that the gradual deregulation of the mutated virus confirmed in India is spreading in some areas, and that it may be affected in the future. showed.

In the UK, the new coronavirus infection spread due to the effects of the mutated virus that was first confirmed in the UK, but it has improved significantly in the past few months, and strict regulations for infection control have been gradually eased. It has been.

Prime Minister Johnson held a press conference on May 14th, saying that the mutated virus, which was first confirmed in India, is spreading in the northwest of England and some parts of London. said to be highly contagious.

And regarding the gradual relaxation of restrictions, he said, "If the strength of the infection is slight, we can proceed as planned, but if it is strong, we will be forced to make difficult choices." I indicated that I was going to leave.

Prime Minister Johnson plans to continue the reopening of indoor restaurants in England, which is scheduled for May 17, but there is a possibility that most of the restrictions scheduled for June will be delayed. I assume there is.

The latest data show that the number of people infected with the mutated virus in India has increased 2.5 times across the UK this week compared to last week.

The government has decided to shorten the vaccination interval from 12 weeks to 8 weeks and further strengthen vaccination for those over 50 who are at high risk of becoming severe.

Back to Table of Contents

76% of Tokyo "N501Y" mutant virus tests confirmed infection (5/14)

May 14, 2021

In Tokyo, it was newly confirmed that 621 people, or about 76%, were infected with a virus with a highly infectious "N501Y" mutation. This is the second highest number of presentations in a single day.

On May 14th, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced the test results of the mutated virus as a new report to the city on May 10th and 11th.

According to this, a total of 620 men and women under the age of 10 to 90, and ▽ 1 person whose age and gender were unknown, were infected with a virus with a highly contagious "N501Y" mutation. confirmed to be infected.

821 people were tested, with a confirmed rate of approximately 76%.

The 621 people on May 14th is the second highest number of people announced in a single day, after the 649 people on May 3rd.

By age group of 621 people, ▽ 182 people in their 20s and ▽ 116 people in their 30s, accounting for nearly half in their 20s and 30s.

In addition, the route of infection was almost identified for 35 people, ▽ ``home'' for 21, ▽ ``facility'' for 11, and ▽ ``acquaintance'' for 3.

With this, a total of 5906 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus in Tokyo.

On May 14th, it was newly confirmed that a man in his 80s who died was infected with the mutated virus.

17 people have died from the mutated virus.

Back to Table of Contents

British mutated virus infection spreads in Thailand, highest number of infected people in a day (5/13)

May 13, 2021

In Thailand, the infection of the mutated virus confirmed in the UK has spread, and large-scale clusters have occurred in prisons, and the number of infected people in a single day has reached a record high. increase.

The Thai government held a press conference on May 13 and announced that the number of infected people per day was 4887, the highest ever.

Of these, a large cluster occurred in the prison and on-site facilities in the capital Bangkok, and more than 2,800 people were confirmed to be infected.

In this prison and facility, core members who have been charged with lese majeste for defaming the royal family in anti-government demonstrations that have been going on since 2020 are detained, of which the female leader is May 6. The infection was confirmed after being released on bail.

In Thailand, from around March 2021, the infection with the mutated virus that was first confirmed in the UK has spread, and on May 10, the infection with the mutated virus that was first confirmed in India was confirmed for the first time. At the beginning of April, the number of infected people per day was less than 100, but in May, the number increased rapidly to around 2,000 every day.

The Thai government has made it mandatory to wear a mask when going out nationwide, and in Bangkok, parks and massage shops are closed, and measures are being taken to ban eating in restaurants.

Furthermore, we are rushing to set up temporary hospitals in various places to treat infected people and to inoculate them with vaccines.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus 1.40 times more severe risk Report summary National Institute of Infectious Diseases (5/13)

May 13, 2021

An analysis by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases found that the risk of being seriously ill when notified was 1.40 times higher than that of conventional viruses, etc. I have compiled a report.

It is said that it is difficult to accurately assess the risk of aggravation based on this result alone, but ``At the moment, it is necessary to take measures assuming that the severity is high.''

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases, based on the data of more than 207,000 people reported in Japan for about three months until May 6, has a virus with a highly infectious "N501Y" mutation. We analyzed the risk of exacerbation of

During this time, more than 15,000 people were confirmed to be infected with this mutant virus by PCR tests, etc., of which 475 were in serious condition, such as severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure. Analyzing the risk of being seriously ill when infected, it was 1.40 times higher than that of conventional viruses, and 1.66 times higher for those aged 40 to 64.

In the case of conventional viruses, there are cases where data is not entered, and the institute says that it is difficult to accurately assess the risk of severe disease based on this result alone, but ``At present, the severity is high. It is necessary to take measures and treatment assuming that

Motoi Suzuki, director of the Center for Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, said, ``There is a tendency for people in their 40s and 50s to be at high risk, and I think that characteristics different from conventional strains have emerged.''

In addition, regarding the mutated virus confirmed in India, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases considers the possibility that it is as infectious as the mutated virus that has become the majority in Japan, and prevents the spread. On May 12th, it was positioned as a "concerned mutant strain" as countermeasures were required.

It is estimated that around 90% of the virus has been replaced with a mutated virus nationwide

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases until early May Based on the data of , we summarized the analysis results that around 90% of the country seems to have been replaced by the mutated virus.

Motoi Suzuki, Director of the Center for Infectious Diseases Epidemiology at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said at an expert meeting held on May 11 that a virus with a highly infectious "N501Y" mutation was detected by a private testing company. Based on the results, we have shown the data that estimated the spread by region.

According to that, in Osaka Prefecture, Hyogo Prefecture, and Kyoto Prefecture, where the mutated virus spread the fastest in Japan, it spread rapidly from March to April, and after about 70% in early April, it is now almost We presume that all of them have been replaced by mutated viruses.

In addition, in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures, as well as Hokkaido, Aichi, Fukuoka, and Okinawa prefectures, replacement has progressed rapidly since mid-April, reaching about 90%. Even in Miyagi Prefecture, which had relatively few mutated viruses, it is believed that nearly 90% have already been replaced.

The director of the center, Suzuki, said, ``The infection is clearly strong, and unless we take measures for a longer time, the number of infected people will not decrease. Even if you expect the effect of countermeasures with the same feeling as that, the effect does not appear easily."

Back to Table of Contents

Short-time identification of corona mutant strains with PCR test equipment and new reagents Meijo University (5/12)

May 12, 2021

Meijo University in Nagoya City announced that it has developed a PCR test device that examines infection with the new coronavirus and a technology that can quickly identify which mutant strain is infected using a new reagent. bottom.

It was developed by a research team led by Professor Toruto Kamino of the Hygiene Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Meijo University, and held a press conference on May 12.

According to this, in a normal PCR test, a reagent-added sample is examined with a test device to determine whether it is positive, but in the developed technology, a new fluorescent reagent that binds to DNA and glows is used to test the sample. , and identify eight types of viruses such as the "British type" and "South African type" of mutant strains.

Professor Jinno, in collaboration with the Aichi Prefectural Institute of Health, used this technology in an experiment on about 200 specimens in April, and was able to almost accurately distinguish between the conventional virus and the British variant. about it.

Currently, in Aichi Prefecture, in order to identify the type of mutant strain, samples are sent to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Tokyo and their genetic information is analyzed. , Using the technology developed this time, it is said that it will be possible to distinguish in about 90 minutes with PCR test equipment in each prefecture.

Professor Jinno says, "If we can identify mutant strains quickly, it will be useful for cluster countermeasures, so I hope that it will be put to practical use in medical settings."

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus confirmed in India ``increases infectivity'' WHO strengthens surveillance (5/11)

May 11, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has added the mutated new coronavirus confirmed in India to the ``mutant strains of concern'' as there is information suggesting that it is becoming more infectious, and has been monitored. announced that it has been reinforced.

In India, more than 360,000 new cases of the new coronavirus have been confirmed a day, and the explosive spread of infection continues. I've been collecting information as a ′′ noteworthy mutant strain ′′

Regarding this mutant virus, at a press conference on May 10, Mr. Bankerkov, who is the technical director of the new coronavirus countermeasures at the WHO, said that there was information suggesting that the infectivity was increasing. It has been raised to 'concerned mutant strains' and revealed that it has strengthened surveillance.

The 'mutant of concern' is the fourth, after three mutated viruses in the UK, South Africa and Brazil.

Mr. Bankerkov said that he is currently collecting detailed information about this mutated virus, and that he will announce what he has learned so far on May 11.

In addition, WHO Director-General Tedros said that the "WHO Foundation", which was established in 2020 to secure funds for the new corona response, started an online campaign to support India with oxygen and therapeutic drugs. and appealed for donations.

Back to Table of Contents

Hyogo Prefecture Mutant Virus Test 90.9% "Almost Replaced" (5/6)

May 6, 2021

Hyogo Prefecture and Kobe City have announced the latest results of their own mutated virus tests.

Accordingly, in the week leading up to April 25, 824 samples were collected out of a total of 3498 people who tested positive, of which 749 were confirmed to be mutated viruses. It was 90.9%.

Hyogo Prefecture analyzes that ``it may have almost replaced the conventional virus.''

In addition, 194 people were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus at a private laboratory, and it was confirmed that they were infected with the mutated virus in Hyogo Prefecture during the week until April 25. The total number of people was 943.

According to Hyogo Prefecture, all 943 people are believed to have been infected with the mutated virus spreading in the UK.

Back to Table of Contents

Tokyo Mutant Virus Test Confirms 62% of Infections "The epidemic becomes a mutant strain" (5/5)

May 5, 2021

In a test of people infected with the new coronavirus in Tokyo, it was newly confirmed that 324 people, or about 62%, were infected with a virus with a highly infectious "N501Y" mutation. .

Infection among the younger generation is spreading, such as clusters of mutated viruses occurring in the dormitories of university sports clubs.

According to the Tokyo metropolitan government, on May 5, 322 men and women between the ages of 10 and 80 were newly infected, and 2 people whose age was unknown, totaling 324 people.

324 of the 521 people who were found to be infected with the new coronavirus and were tested for the mutated virus, or about 62%.

The person in charge of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government analyzes that "the number of people infected with the mutant strain is increasing even in Tokyo, and the epidemic is being replaced by N501Y."

The 324 people by age are 16 under the age of 10, 40 in their teens, 86 in their 20s, 67 in their 30s, 52 in their 40s, 33 in their 50s, and 60s. 13 people, 11 people in their 70s, 4 people in their 80s, and 2 people are unknown.

The route of infection has been identified for 46 people, including 26 “inside the facility”, 11 “inside the home”, 7 “inside the workplace”, and 2 “acquaintances”.

Of these, "inside the facility", a cluster occurred in the dormitory of the university athletic club, and a total of 20 male students were confirmed to be infected.

With this, a total of 3146 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus in Tokyo.

Six of these have been confirmed dead.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus confirmed in UK spreads to 142 countries/regions WHO report (5/5)

May 5, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has compiled a report that the mutated new coronavirus infection, which was first confirmed in the UK, has spread to 142 countries and regions around the world. In India, in particular, the number of deaths in a week accounts for 25% of the world total, and there is a warning that the infection continues to spread seriously.

According to the report, the number of countries and territories with reports of the first confirmed mutated virus in the United Kingdom was 142 as of May 4, an increase of 3 compared to the previous week. .

In addition, the number of countries and regions reporting another mutated virus confirmed in South Africa increased to 97 and 10, and the number of countries and regions reporting another mutated virus confirmed in Brazil increased to 56. 3 have increased, and the infection is expanding in all cases.

These three mutant viruses have genetic mutations that may affect their infectivity and immune efficacy, and the WHO is strengthening surveillance as ``concerned mutant strains''.

In addition, the WHO has designated the mutated virus confirmed in India as a "notable mutated strain" next to the three mutated viruses, and as of April 27, at least 17 countries have supposed to have been reported.

Of these, in India, the number of infected people in the week ending May 2 was 46% of the world's total, and the number of deaths accounted for 25%.

In addition, the infection has spread to Nepal and Sri Lanka in the surrounding areas, and the number of deaths in this area has increased by 48% from the previous week, warning that a serious spread of infection continues.

Back to Table of Contents

Severely ill 1050 people nationwide Exceeding the 3rd wave, the highest number of mutant viruses affected (5/2)

May 2, 2021

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as of May 2, there were 1,050 severely ill people who were confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus and were receiving treatment in a ventilator or an intensive care unit. I was. The number of cases has increased by 30 since May 1, surpassing the 1,043 as of January 27, 2021, making it the highest number ever.

Experts point out the impact of the mutated virus

Experts point out the impact of the mutated virus on the highest number of severe cases of the new coronavirus in Japan so far. I'm here.

Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with infectious diseases, said, "I think the main reason is that the mutated virus is spreading. So far, it takes about two weeks from the time of infection until the disease becomes severe. It was a perception that the number of severely ill people would increase after a delay, but recently there seem to be many cases of suddenly becoming severely ill."

According to Professor Hamada, there is still no established scientific evidence as to whether the mutated virus is likely to become severe.

On the other hand, in April, a paper published in a European public health journal suggested that the mutated virus, which was first identified in the UK, is more susceptible to severe disease even among younger generations. With the data being reported and attracting attention, Project Professor Hamada said, ``There is a growing view that mutated viruses are not only highly contagious, but also more likely to become severe.''

In addition, regarding other factors, Professor Hamada said, ``Due to the increase in the number of infected people, we have not been able to catch mild or asymptomatic patients. We cannot deny the possibility that it seems that there are many people."

Minister of Economic Revitalization Nishimura ``Assuming that the number of severely ill people will increase, the government will also provide support''

We have received reports that the number of people with severe symptoms tends to increase two to three weeks later than the number of infected people. The number is increasing, and we will do our utmost to protect lives while providing support as a country."

Persons discharged from the hospital

On the other hand, among those who were discharged after their symptoms improved, ▼ 527,233 people were infected in Japan, and ▼ a total of 659 cruise ship passengers and crew members. total of 527,892 people.

Also, on April 29, 26,478 PCR tests were conducted per day, according to preliminary figures.

Back to Table of Contents

239 confirmed infections with mutated virus "N501Y" in Tokyo 61% of those tested (4/30)

April 30, 2021

On the 30th, in Tokyo, 239 new people were confirmed to be infected with a new coronavirus with a highly infectious "N501Y" mutation.

According to the Tokyo metropolitan government, a total of 238 new infections were confirmed on April 30, from those under the age of 10 to those in their 90s, and a total of 239 people whose age was unknown.

Of the 389 people tested, 239, or 61%, were confirmed to have the mutated virus.

The 239 people by age are 4 under 10, 13 in their teens, 67 in their 20s, 59 in their 30s, 32 in their 40s, 23 in their 50s, and 60s. 17 people, 16 people in their 70s, 6 people in their 80s, 1 person in their 90s, and 1 person who doesn't know.

The route of infection has been identified for 17 people, 10 of whom are “inside the facility,” 6 are “at home,” and 1 is “an acquaintance.”

Of these, "inside the facility", three new patients were newly confirmed at medical institutions where clusters of mutated viruses occurred, and four staff members were newly infected at a paid nursing home.

In addition, two male students in their 20s at the same university and one girl at a nursery school were confirmed to be infected.

With this, a total of 2173 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus in Tokyo.

Four of them died.

Back to Table of Contents

“Rapid spread” Osaka Hyogo Kyoto Over 80% Tokyo Over 50% (4/28)

April 28, 2021

How far has the highly contagious, mutated novel coronavirus spread in different regions? I understand the situation. In Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo, where a state of emergency has been declared, more than 80% have been replaced so far, and more than half of them in Tokyo have been replaced from the conventional virus, and replacement is progressing rapidly nationwide.

"N501Y" mutation In areas where a state of emergency has been declared...

Mr. For viruses with a strong "N501Y" mutation, we presented data that estimated the spread by region based on the results detected by a private testing company. This is the result of the area where the emergency declaration is issued.

More than 80% by late April

The percentage of mutated viruses was about 20% in early March, but about 70% in early April. The infection of the mutated virus spread the fastest, and the replacement progressed rapidly. After that, it is estimated that it exceeded 80% by the end of April.

About 80% at the beginning of May

The percentage of mutated viruses increased later than in Kansai. It is estimated that it will be about 80% by early May.

With the exception of Tohoku, the proportion of viruses with the "N501Y" mutation is increasing nationwide, except for Tohoku

In other regions, the proportion of viruses with the "N501Y" mutation is increasing, and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases It is said that replacement is progressing rapidly nationwide except for.

On the other hand, it is said that the speed of replacement has been slowing down, especially in Osaka Prefecture, and that it has reached a "plateau", and the reason for this is that the number of people is decreasing, and the virus is being replaced by a mutated virus. It is possible that the speed of is changing, and that ▽ may not be replaced 100% by competing with viruses of other strains.

National Institute of Infectious Diseases Director Takaji Wakita "The mutated virus that is currently spreading has an effective reproduction number that indicates the ease of infection compared to the conventional virus, which is 1.32 times the national average. However, the infectious power differed depending on the region, and a difference was observed between approximately 1.21 and 1.68 times.

"N501Y" Mutation In areas with many infected people...

In other areas, the proportion of new coronaviruses with the highly contagious "N501Y" mutation is increasing. The results estimated by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases for other areas as of April 26 are as follows.

About 80% at the beginning of May

It was about 20% at the beginning of April, but it rapidly exceeded half in late April. It is estimated that it will be replaced and it will be about 80% at the beginning of May.

More than 70% in early May

Replacement is progressing rapidly. It is estimated that it will be nearly half in early April, and more than 70% in early May.

More than 80% in late April

They were rarely seen until mid-March, but they were 20-30% in early April, and in late April We estimate it to be over 80%.

More than 80% in late April

The number was low until the beginning of March, but it increased rapidly from the beginning of April. I'm assuming it's more than half.

It is said that the replacement of the virus with the "N501Y" mutation has not yet been seen to a large extent.

The "N501Y" mutation in 44.4% of Tokyo metropolitan and private testing institutions

In Tokyo, the new coronavirus with the "N501Y" mutation was in Tokyo for a week until April 18. It was found in more than 40% of the tests performed, and it was found that it increased by more than 14 points compared to the previous week.

In Tokyo, the "Health and Safety Research Center" in Tokyo and private inspection institutions are testing whether the virus has the "N501Y" mutation.

As a result of examining 1562 specimens, which is nearly 40% of the newly confirmed positive cases in Tokyo in the week until April 18, the number of viruses with the "N501Y" mutation was 44.4%, from 694 cases. Found. This is an increase of 14.4 points compared to the week ending on the 11th.

About 60% in the analysis of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Health and Safety Research Center

Also, according to the results of the analysis of samples collected by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Health and Safety Research Center, up to April 25 In one week, viruses with the "N501Y" mutation accounted for 59.6%.

It has nearly doubled compared to the previous week, and experts say, "N501Y is becoming completely dominant. Considering the threat of N501Y, we will continue to be vigilant and keep a close eye on trends. There is a need."

Tokyo If almost all of them become mutated viruses, more than 1700 positive people will be positive two weeks later

And if almost all of them will be replaced by mutated viruses, there will be 1742 new positives after two weeks, An estimate of 4,450 hospitalizations was also revealed.

Mutant virus More than 10,000 infected people in Japan

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has announced that the number of confirmed infected people in Japan has exceeded 10,000.

Municipalities across the country are extracting specimens from some of the new coronavirus infections and investigating whether they are infected with the mutated virus that has been confirmed in the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, and the Philippines.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, local governments reported that a total of 10,102 people nationwide had detected a mutated virus from December 2020 to April 27, 2021. In the week ending April 27, a total of 4,186 people were confirmed to be infected in 43 prefectures, a 1.8-fold increase from the previous week (2,352).

In addition, as a result of analyzing the genes of more than 2,200 specimens infected with the mutated virus so far, the virus first found in the UK was detected in 96% of the people.

By prefecture...

The prefectures and number of people confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus are as follows.

▽2045 in Osaka, 1883 in Tokyo, 563 in Saitama, 557 in Kanagawa, 443 in Hyogo, 380 in Aichi, 328 in Kyoto, and 299 in Hokkaido. ▽ 274 people in Chiba prefecture ▽ 252 people in Nara prefecture ▽ 251 people in Kagawa prefecture ▽ 248 people in Ehime prefecture ▽ 213 people in Fukuoka and Hiroshima prefectures ▽ 179 people in Toyama prefecture ▽ 173 people in Mie prefecture ▽ 145 people in Okayama prefecture ▽ 138 people in Tokushima prefecture ▽ 134 people in Shizuoka prefecture ▽ 126 people in Gifu and Shiga prefectures ▽ 116 people in Ibaraki prefecture ▽ 98 people in Yamaguchi prefecture ▽ 91 people in Niigata prefecture ▽ 84 people in Gunma prefecture ▽ Wakayama prefecture 83, 62 in Fukui, 61 in Tottori, 58 in Nagano, 57 in Kumamoto, 49 in Miyazaki, 46 in Kochi, and 41 in Yamanashi, Tochigi and Oita prefectures. ▽ 29 people in Ishikawa and Okinawa prefectures ▽ 27 people in Miyagi and Akita prefectures ▽ 26 people in Kagoshima prefecture ▽ 24 people in Saga prefecture ▽ 19 people in Shimane prefecture ▽ 15 people in Nagasaki prefecture ▽ 5 people in Fukushima prefecture ▽ Iwate prefecture 2 people in prefecture ▽ 1 person in Aomori prefecture

Since the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare collects these data through the system "HER-SYS" that aggregates information on infected people, the number of people may differ from the announcement by the local government.

The most confirmed infections were in their 20s, and 37 people died. We have summarized the age of 2179 people whose genes were analyzed by etc.

▽ 129 people under the age of 10 ▽ 243 people in their teens ▽ 515 people in their 20s ▽ 252 people in their 30s ▽ 279 people in their 40s ▽ 260 people in their 50s ▽ 178 people in their 60s ▽ 70s 156 people, 164 people in their 80s and over, and 3 people are unknown.

A total of 37 people died, ▽ 1 each in their 40s and 50s, 3 in their 60s, 9 in their 70s, and 23 in their 80s and above.

Back to Table of Contents

“Infectivity ↑““Antibody action↓” Confirmed in India What is a mutated virus? (4/28)

April 28, 2021

India, where the number of new infections per day exceeds 300,000 and the number of deaths per day exceeds 2,000. As one of the factors, the impact of the mutated virus that was first confirmed in India has been pointed out. WHO has newly designated this mutant virus as a "mutant of note".

Even in Japan, the Tokyo metropolitan government has confirmed the infection of women in their 80s. What kind of virus is it?

Reported in at least 17 countries around the world

WHO = In a report released by the World Health Organization on April 27, the first mutated virus confirmed in India was in India, the United Kingdom and the United States. , Singapore, has so far been reported in at least 17 countries around the world.

Increased infectivity and weakened antibody function? There are three major gene mutations, and an analysis of the infection situation in India suggests that it may be more infectious.

For this reason, the WHO has newly designated this mutant virus as a "mutant of note" to monitor the infection status, and called on the health authorities of each country to report the detection status.

On the other hand, the WHO pointed out that the rapid spread of infection in India was due to the difficulty of social infection control, such as religious events in which many people participated. , says that there is an urgent need for research on the nature of the virus.

What kind of virus? Evaluation by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases

What kind of virus was the first mutant virus confirmed in India? The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has compiled an evaluation as of April 26.

According to the report released by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the mutant virus reported in India is called "B.1.617 lineage" and has two mutations, "L452R" and "E484Q". There is.

WHO has revealed that it has been reported in at least 17 countries around the world. being detected by humans.

In overseas research, while there is data that the effectiveness of the vaccine used in India has decreased, viruses with the same "L452R" mutation are also spreading in Japan Viruses with the "N501Y" mutation There is also experimental data on cells that show that the infectivity was low compared to .

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases said that due to the small number of genetic analyzes in India, the relationship with the rapid increase in the number of infected people in India is not clear. We will continue to monitor the situation.”

British type, South African type, etc. are "mutants of concern"

Regarding the mutant virus of the new coronavirus, the following 3 are designated by WHO as "mutant strains of concern". It's one. ▽ "Mutant virus first found in England" ▽ "Mutant virus found in South Africa" ​​and ▽ "Mutant virus spread in Brazil"

Another mutant virus has been reported in India.

According to the announcement of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India on March 24, 2021, the virus with the two mutations "E484Q" and "L452R" in the state of Maharashtra in western India ranges from 15% to 15% of the total. It means that it is detected in 20% and tends to increase.

It is not uncommon for the new coronavirus to have two or more mutations at the same time, and the question is how much influence the mutation has on properties such as infectivity.

For example, the mutated virus first confirmed in the UK, which is spreading in Japan, mainly in the Kansai region, has more than 5 major mutations in the spike protein alone, and it is said that it increases the infectivity. The mutation "N501Y" has become a problem.

In addition to ``N501Y'', the mutated virus found in South Africa and the mutated virus that spread in Brazil also mutated ``E484K'', which may reduce the effect of immunity, and the mutation found in India It is a virus that has two or more mutations that are problematic like viruses.

U.S. President Biden “Providing vaccines to India”

In India, the medical system is in crisis, and U.S. President Biden provides vaccines in addition to medical oxygen. I expressed my desire to

President Biden told reporters at the White House on April 27, ``Immediately send all the necessary assistance from India,'' and said that parts of the equipment used to manufacture the antiviral drug ``remdesivir'' and vaccines were supplied. announced that it will provide

In addition, regarding the telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Modi the day before, he said, "We discussed when we could send the vaccine itself to India. I intend to do so." He expressed his desire to provide vaccines in addition to oxygen and other supplies.

The United States has already announced a policy to provide approximately 60 million doses of vaccines developed by British pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca and others to countries that need them, but it is said that the destination is under consideration. Countries such as the United Kingdom and companies are stepping up their support for India.

Back to Table of Contents

India has the highest number of infected people per day in the world ``Mutant virus is the main factor'' (4/23)

April 23, 2021

In India, where the spread of the new coronavirus has spread rapidly and the number of new infected people exceeds 300,000 per day, hospitals across the country are facing a serious shortage of medical oxygen. In India, more than 330,000 new infections were confirmed on April 23, the highest number of daily infections in the world, and the number of deaths reached a record high of more than 2,200 in the country. .

Treatment delayed due to lack of oxygen

In the capital, New Delhi, hospitals all over the country complained that there was only a few hours of oxygen left for medical use, and there were calls for additional supplies one after another. It is a serious situation where treatment is delayed due to lack of oxygen.

The Indian government has reduced the production of industrial oxygen and used it for medical purposes, but it has not kept up with the increase in patients, and Prime Minister Modi has instructed further production increases.

In the midst of this, on April 20, in central Madhya Pradesh, relatives of people infected with the new corona have taken oxygen cylinders from hospital warehouses.

In the background of this rapid spread of infection, it is pointed out that the influence of a virus with two characteristic mutations newly found in India.

According to experts, this mutated virus may be highly contagious, and the United Kingdom, Singapore, Canada, etc. have successively banned entry from India.

Expert ``Mutant virus is the main factor in the spread of infection''

Prof. Regarding the virus, he said, ``Mutation causes the virus and cell receptors to bind perfectly like a lock and keyhole.

On top of that, he said, ``There is no doubt that this mutant virus is the main factor in the rapid spread of infection,'' even though the data is not sufficient.

Back to Table of Contents

"N501Y" Mutant Virus Successive Detections This Month Tokyo Medical and Dental University Survey (4/22)

April 22, 2021

When the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital investigated the highly infectious and mutated new coronavirus, which is feared to spread, it was found that it was detected one after another from patients in April. . The conventional virus was not detected, so the group that analyzed it says that the mutated virus is spreading in the Kanto region.

At the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, all patients infected with the new coronavirus are tested to see if it is a mutated virus.

According to the group, of the 14 patients in the week up to April 21, 11 had a virus with a mutation called "N501Y" that is spreading in Kansai, and ▽ "E484K", which escapes antibody attacks. It means that a virus with a mutation was detected in three people. ▽ No conventional viruses were detected.

According to the group, in the survey up to March, many of the viruses had the "E484K" mutation, but in April, the number of viruses with the "N501Y" mutation increased, so the Tokyo Metropolitan Government survey etc. A similar trend is also observed.

Associate Professor Hiroaki Takeuchi of Tokyo Medical and Dental University said, "The mutated virus strains that are mainly detected are reversing to those with high infectivity. It is said that replacement with this strain is occurring rapidly in Tokyo as well. I'm thinking,' he said.

Back to Table of Contents

A total of nearly 6,000 people infected with the novel coronavirus mutated virus (4/21)

April 21, 2021

Regarding the mutated new coronavirus, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that 2352 new infections were confirmed in the past week by tests by local governments nationwide. The number of new confirmed cases is 1.5 times higher than the previous week, bringing the total number of cases to date to nearly 6,000.

Municipalities across the country are extracting samples from some of the new coronavirus infections and investigating whether they are infected with the mutated virus that has been confirmed in the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, and the Philippines.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's summary, a total of 2,352 mutated viruses were detected in 42 prefectures, excluding Aomori, Iwate, Yamagata, Fukushima, and Saga prefectures, in the week leading up to April 20. It means that it was done.

This is about 1.5 times more than the previous week.

By prefecture, Tokyo had the highest number of people with 549, followed by Osaka with 209, Saitama with 196, Kanagawa with 120, Hokkaido with 119, and Ehime with 106. I'm here.

To date, a total of 5916 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus by tests conducted by local governments.

In addition, a total of 1646 people nationwide have been confirmed to have the gene of the mutated virus at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, etc., and 95% of them have detected the first virus found in the UK. It means that

This mutant virus is said to be more infectious than the conventional one, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and local governments are strengthening their surveillance system.

The proportion of children is...

It has been pointed out that the mutated virus is more infectious than the conventional virus, and may be more susceptible to infection in all age groups. However, it is not yet known in detail whether children are susceptible to infection.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases is conducting an epidemiological analysis of domestic infected people as of April 5th.

According to that, 1889 people infected with the first type of mutated virus confirmed in the UK and 35,216 people infected with the conventional virus were analyzed by age, and the conventional virus was 0 to 5 years old. The following infected people were 2.1% of the total, while the mutant virus increased to 4.3%.

In addition, the number of infected people aged 6 to 17 years old, who are in school age, was 5.7% of the total for the conventional virus, but 10.3% for the mutant virus.

In other age groups, the percentage of infected people aged 65 and over decreased due to the mutated virus, but there was no significant change.

The high percentage of children at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases is influenced by the fact that clusters (groups of infected people) were found at facilities related to children at the beginning of the epidemic of the mutated virus. I think there is a possibility.

In addition, according to the data presented by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare at an expert meeting on April 20th, as of April 19th, as a result of analyzing 1477 people who were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus by detailed genetic testing, For the virus, 3% were under the age of 10, while 8% for the mutant virus and 7% for teenagers, but 11% for the mutant virus, increasing the percentage of children under the age of 10.

However, the percentage of people under the age of 10 is lower than a month ago, so at the current stage, the expert meeting says that there is no clear tendency to spread infection among people under the age of 15. .

In the week leading up to the 20th...

In the week leading up to April 20th, the following prefectures were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus by local government inspections, and the number of people infected. is.

According to the summary of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, ▽ 549 people in Tokyo, followed by ▽ 209 people in Osaka Prefecture, ▽ 196 people in Saitama Prefecture, ▽ 120 people in Kanagawa Prefecture, ▽ 119 people in Hokkaido, ▽ ▽ 106 people in Ehime Prefecture, ▽ 91 people in Kyoto Prefecture, ▽ 85 people in Fukuoka Prefecture, ▽ 79 people in Shiga Prefecture, ▽ 76 people in Hyogo Prefecture, ▽ 73 people in Aichi Prefecture, ▽ 57 people in Kagawa Prefecture, ▽ Toyama 55 in Chiba Prefecture, 54 in Chiba Prefecture, 53 in Mie Prefecture, 48 in Nara Prefecture, 43 in Ibaraki Prefecture, 42 in Hiroshima Prefecture, 34 in Okayama Prefecture, ▽ Gunma Prefecture ▽ 26 people in Gifu and Tottori prefectures ▽ 25 people in Yamaguchi prefecture ▽ 24 people in Miyagi prefecture ▽ 21 people in Shizuoka prefecture ▽ 14 people in Tochigi prefecture ▽ 12 people in Okinawa prefecture ▽ ▽ 8 people in Niigata, Nagano and Oita prefectures ▽ 7 people in Yamanashi and Kumamoto prefectures ▽ 6 people in Wakayama and Miyazaki prefectures ▽ 5 people in Ishikawa prefecture ▽ There were four in Nagasaki, two in Kochi, and one in Shimane, Tokushima, and Kagoshima prefectures.

In Aomori, Iwate, Yamagata, Fukushima, and Saga prefectures, according to a summary by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, no cases were confirmed during the week leading up to April 20.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare collects these data through the system "HER-SYS" that aggregates information on infected people, and the number may differ from the number announced by the local government.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus "N501Y" More than 80% in the Tokyo metropolitan area in early May NIID (4/15)

April 15, 2021

The highly contagious, mutated new coronavirus has already accounted for 80% of the total in Kansai, and more than 80% of the total in the first three prefectures of the Tokyo metropolitan area, such as Tokyo, was in the beginning of May. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has compiled the results of the estimation that it will replace the virus.

The virus with a mutation called "N501Y", which was first confirmed in the UK, has an average of 1.32 ``effective reproduction number'', which indicates the ease of spread of infection, compared to conventional viruses, according to an analysis by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases. It is believed to be twice as expensive and rapidly displacing previous viruses.

Based on the results of tests conducted by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases to examine mutated viruses, the new estimate as of April 13th is that in Osaka, Hyogo, and Kyoto prefectures, Mutant viruses began to increase rapidly from February 2021, and it is believed that more than half of them were replaced by mutant viruses by the end of March.

After that, as of the beginning of April, it is estimated to account for about 75% of the total, and at present it has already accounted for 80%. increase.

Also, in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama prefectures, the number of mutated viruses of this type began to increase from mid-March, and was about 10% at the beginning of April. It is increasing rapidly, and if this situation continues, we estimate that 80% to 90% will be replaced by mutated viruses by early May.

In addition, it is estimated that most of the four prefectures of Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shizuoka, as well as Okinawa Prefecture, will become mutated viruses by early May.

In the UK, the same type of mutated virus has increased rapidly since October 2020, and it is believed that almost all of them have been replaced around February to March, and the same thing may happen in Japan. I have.

Infectious Disease Epidemiology Center Director Motoi Suzuki of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases said, ``If this pace continues, it is estimated that most of the viruses in Japan will have the N501Y mutation in the first half of May. The effects of countermeasures, such as changes in flow, are not taken into consideration, so the data may change in the future depending on the countermeasures."

Back to Table of Contents

[Details] Sudden spread of mutated virus infection “Fast speed of severity” (4/14)

April 14, 2021

Among the new coronaviruses, a mutated virus called "N501Y" found in the United Kingdom and other countries is said to be more infectious than conventional ones, and is spreading rapidly in Japan.

As a result of each local government investigating the spread of this mutated virus, it was found that the proportion of infected people has increased significantly.

It is said that there are also reports from medical sites that ``the speed of becoming severe is faster than that of conventional cases'' and ``patients in their 40s and 50s who do not have underlying diseases may become severe.'' .

We have summarized the opinions of experts on the current situation and future of each region.

Tokyo

In Tokyo, a total of 510 people infected with the new coronavirus were investigated at a research institute in the city and a private laboratory in the week until April 11. and checked whether the virus has the "N501Y" mutation.

As a result, 130 people, or 25.5%, were confirmed as this mutant virus.

This percentage jumped from 3.1% in the week ending March 28th to 16% in the week ending April 4th, and has risen nearly 10 points this time.

In two weeks, the ratio has increased by about 8 times, and the infection is spreading rapidly.

In Tokyo, 61 people were confirmed on April 12th, and 80 people were confirmed on April 13th, the highest number of people announced on a single day for the second consecutive day. In addition, 72 new infections were confirmed on the 14th.

Of the 336 people confirmed in Tokyo by April 12, 286, or about 85%, have been confirmed since March 29. has increased over the past two weeks.

Governor Koike of Tokyo "Clearly ferocious telework thoroughly"

Governor Koike of Tokyo told reporters at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, "While recognizing that it is clearly ferocious, countermeasures I want to hit firmly, ”he said, acknowledging that the infection of the mutated virus is spreading.

On top of that, "It's raining again today, but I've heard that the station was quite crowded with people commuting to work and school. Getting them to telework thoroughly again can keep this unpleasant period short. Each person's judgment and decision. Ultimately, it will lead to measures as a whole," and called for further thoroughness of the measures.

Also, on the evening of April 14, he told reporters, "We are seeing the spread of the mutated virus among the younger generation. Since the spread of the active young generation leads to further spread of the infection, it is particularly important to travel to and from metropolitan areas. In addition, I would like to ask people to refrain from going out beyond the border between the capital and the prefecture.

Osaka Prefecture

In the week ending April 3, 224 people, or 73.7%, were confirmed to be mutated viruses as a result of examining samples from 304 infected people in Osaka Prefecture.

The percentage of mutated viruses increased to 41.7% for the week ending March 13, 48.6% for the week ending March 20, and 65% for the week ending March 27.

Kanagawa Prefecture

In Kanagawa Prefecture, samples from 338 infected people were investigated from April 1st to 11th, and 102 people, or 30.2%, were confirmed to have a mutant virus.

It was over 5% in February as a whole, so you can see that it has increased rapidly in a short period of time.

Hyogo Prefecture

In Hyogo Prefecture, samples from 260 infected people were investigated in the week ending March 28, and 211 people, or 81.2%, were confirmed to have the mutated virus.

Survey results ``do not indicate the overall accurate situation'', but each local government is wary

These surveys are not being conducted on all new infected people, and mutation virus infection It is said that there are areas where there are relatively many close contacts of people, and it does not necessarily indicate the overall accurate situation, but the ratio continues to rise, and each local government is increasing its vigilance.

Also, the study covers the mutation called 'N501Y' and does not include the mutation called 'E484K'.

Will almost all viruses in Osaka and Hyogo be replaced by mutated viruses by the end of May?

One of the characteristics of the mutated virus first confirmed in the UK is its high infectivity.

According to the materials presented at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's expert meeting on April 7, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases calculated the strength of infection in Japan for this type of mutated virus, and found that it is easy to spread infection. It means that the "effective reproduction number", which indicates the severity, was on average 1.32 times higher than the conventional virus.

For this reason, it is believed that in areas where this mutated virus has begun to spread, it is rapidly replacing the existing virus with the mutated virus.

As of April 6, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases estimated that the number of mutated viruses began to increase rapidly in Osaka and Hyogo prefectures in February, and that more than half of them were replaced by mutated viruses by the end of March. I'm here.

Then, by early April, it is estimated to be around 70% of the total.

If this situation continues, it is expected that almost all of them will be replaced by mutated viruses by the end of May.

Also, in Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Chiba prefectures, this type of mutated virus has started to increase since mid-March, but it is estimated to be about 10% at the beginning of April. increase.

However, it has been pointed out that it may increase rapidly after that, and if this situation continues, it is estimated that it will exceed 75% in May and may increase further.

According to the WHO, this trend has also been confirmed in overseas countries where the mutated virus is already spreading.

In the UK, the number of mutated viruses has increased rapidly since October 2020, and it is believed that almost all of them were replaced by mutated viruses from February to March this year.

Also, in South Africa, where a mutated virus called `` N501Y '' that increases infectivity spread like the UK, the number of mutated viruses has increased rapidly since around October 2020, and from January to February this year, almost all mutated viruses It means that it seems to have become

Hospitals report that ``the speed of becoming severe is faster than that of conventional viruses.''

Amid the spread of the new coronavirus's mutated virus infection, hospitals in Saitama Prefecture began receiving severe patients in April. It is said that the period from onset to severe symptoms used to be about a week, but there are cases where the symptoms become severe in 4 to 5 days.

Doctors in the corona ward have a sense of crisis, as there are reports that the mutated virus is becoming more severe at a faster rate than before.

At the Saitama Medical University General Medical Center in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, the number of severely ill patients, who surged in the third wave, had decreased, but it is increasing again in April.

The hospital can accept about five seriously ill patients. That's it.

There are also cases in which patients in their 40s and 50s with no underlying disease become severe

Also, according to hospitals, the period from onset to severe symptoms used to be 7 to 9 days. However, it is said that there are currently cases where it becomes severe in 4 or 5 days.

Furthermore, when we tested some of the corona patients who were hospitalized in April, only one person was infected with the mutated virus, but according to this hospital, the mutated virus causes pneumonia symptoms to progress quickly, and the underlying disease. There are reports that even patients in their 40s and 50s who do not have the disease become severe, and it is necessary to examine patients who have not been fully investigated.

Professor Hideaki Oka of the Department of Infectious Diseases, who oversees the corona ward, said, "I think we are already at the entrance to the fourth wave. Doctors in Kansai say that the mutant strain has progressed enough to make you realize that the virus has changed. The pace is different.' It's highly contagious and likely to be replaced by a mutated strain.With more people coming and going, it's only a matter of time before the mutated virus spreads in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and I'm terrified." I am raising a sense of crisis.

Expert ``It can be considered that a different virus is prevalent''

A virus with a mutation called "N501Y", which was first discovered in the UK, is rapidly spreading in Kansai and other areas. Atsuro Hamada, a specially appointed professor at Tokyo Medical University who is familiar with infectious diseases, said, "It's true that it is highly infectious, and in Kansai, the conventional virus has almost been replaced by a mutated virus. Sooner or later, it will come to the Tokyo metropolitan area and other areas.It will be difficult to completely avoid it even if you look at how it spreads overseas, so we have to think about how to slow it down." bottom.

Furthermore, "In the Kansai region, the number of cases of severe illness among relatively young people in their 40s and 50s is increasing, and there are also reports that the time between onset and severity of symptoms is shortening. Medical care. The impact on the system may become greater, and it is a situation that we must be extremely concerned about.It is possible to regard it as a different virus from the past, and I would like you to take more stringent measures than ever before. Based on the speed of the spread of the virus, I would like the government and government to make decisions more quickly than before to strengthen measures such as switching to a state of emergency."

Also, in Tokyo, etc., although there is no "N501Y" mutation, a group of viruses with a mutation called "E484K" that escapes immune attacks have been confirmed. unlikely, but the vaccine may be less effective and people who have been previously infected may become infected again.

However, the priority of countermeasures is to suppress the type of virus found in the UK with the ``N501Y'' mutation that is spreading rapidly."

Nationwide, 1,525 people were detected in the past week, an increase of about 1.7 times.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, a total of 1,525 samples were collected in 45 prefectures in the week leading up to April 13. Mutant virus was detected from

▽The highest number was in Tokyo with 319 people, followed by ▽Osaka prefecture with 273 people, ▽Kyoto prefecture with 76 people, ▽Aichi prefecture with 67 people, ▽Kanagawa prefecture with 63 people, ▽Saitama prefecture with 61 people. ▽ 60 people in Fukuoka prefecture ▽ 45 people in Okayama prefecture ▽ 43 people in Chiba prefecture ▽ 42 people in Ibaraki prefecture ▽ 41 people in Kagawa prefecture ▽ 39 people in Mie prefecture ▽ 37 people in Toyama and Shiga prefectures ▽ 36 people in Ehime prefecture, ▽ 28 people in Gifu and Hyogo prefectures, ▽ 27 people in Fukui prefecture, ▽ 22 people in Nagano prefecture, ▽ 21 people in Tokushima prefecture, ▽ 17 people in Hiroshima prefecture, ▽ Shizuoka prefecture 16 in Hokkaido, 13 in Nara, 10 in Kochi and Kumamoto, and 10 in Oita, 9 in Yamaguchi, 8 in Akita and Tochigi, and 8 in Gunma. 7 in prefectures, 6 in Miyazaki, 5 in Wakayama, Kagoshima and Saga, 4 in Shimane, 3 in Niigata and Ishikawa, 2 in Iwate and Yamanashi People ▽ Nagasaki prefecture, Okinawa prefecture, Aomori prefecture, Tottori prefecture and Miyagi prefecture each has one person.

Aomori, Iwate, and Miyazaki Prefectures have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus for the first time.

So far, a total of 3564 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus by local government tests, an increase of about 1.7 times over the past week.

In addition, a total of 1141 people nationwide have been confirmed to have the gene of the mutated virus at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, etc., and 94% of them detected the virus first found in the UK. It means that

Mutant virus As of April, there are mainly two types that spread in Japan

Mutant viruses of the new coronavirus are classified in detail according to which part of the genetic information has mutated. However, as of April 2021, there are mainly two types of mutated virus infections spreading in Japan.

A virus with a mutation called "N501Y"

The mutated virus, which is often confirmed in Osaka and Hyogo prefectures, was first discovered in the United Kingdom in December 2020, and has since spread around the world. type.

This virus has a mutation called "N501Y" in the part called "spike protein", which makes it more infectious.

This means that the 501st amino acid of the "spike protein" has been replaced from asparagine (abbreviation N) to tyrosine (abbreviation Y).

It is known that this "N501Y" mutation is common to the mutant virus found in South Africa and the mutant virus that spread in Brazil.

According to the WHO summary, the mutant virus found in the UK was 36% to 75% more infectious than the original virus.

Also, in Japan, when the National Institute of Infectious Diseases analyzed the cases from February 1st to March 22nd, the numerical value representing the ease of spread of infection was 1.32 times higher than the conventional virus on average. It was a calculation result that it is.

At the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, if this mutated virus spreads, the same measures against conventional viruses will lead to an increase in the number of infected people, and the system of medical care and public health measures will be rapidly squeezed. I have pointed out that it is possible.

For this reason, the country is increasing its vigilance, such as conducting nationwide screening tests for viruses with the "N501Y" mutation.

A virus with a mutation called "E484K"

On the other hand, in March, it was pointed out that the spread of infection in Tokyo and other places was called "E484K" instead of the "N501Y" mutation. A virus with a different mutation.

This means that the 484th amino acid of the "spike protein" has been replaced from glutamic acid (abbreviation E) to lysine (abbreviation K).

This mutant virus has not been reported to have any changes in its nature, such as significantly increased infectivity or stronger symptoms.

However, it is believed that this mutation has the property of escaping from antibody attack, and it has been pointed out that immunity and the effectiveness of vaccines may be reduced.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases says it is unlikely that a virus with this mutation will completely nullify the effects of the Pfizer vaccine currently in use in Japan.

However, the risk of reinfection may increase and the effectiveness of vaccines may decrease, so ``the public health risk is not high, but it is a risk that should be dealt with in the medium to long term.'' I'm assuming

Mutant virus spread in South Africa and Brazil

Furthermore, although there are few reported cases in Japan, there is also a virus with both "N501Y" and "E484K" mutations.

A mutant virus first identified in South Africa, a mutant virus spread in Brazil, and a mutant virus found in the Philippines.

These three mutant viruses are likely to have the characteristics of both mutations, such as being easier to infect and the effectiveness of vaccines may be reduced, so Japan is also cautious not to spread the infection.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus confirmed in UK ``132 countries and regions'' WHO publishes report (4/14)

April 14, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization announced that the mutated new coronavirus infection, which was first confirmed in the United Kingdom, has spread to 132 countries and regions around the world, and the mutated viruses confirmed in South Africa and Brazil are also infected. released a report that it is on the rise.

According to the report, the number of countries and territories with reports of the first confirmed mutated virus in the UK was 132 as of April 13, an increase of two compared to the summary two weeks ago. .

In addition, the number of countries and territories reporting another mutated virus confirmed in South Africa increased by 2 to 82, and another mutated virus confirmed in Brazil increased by 7 to 52.

These three mutant viruses have genetic mutations that may affect their infectivity and immune efficacy, and the WHO has designated them as ``concerned mutants'' and strengthened surveillance.

Of these, in Brazil, the percentage of mutated viruses detected as of January 2021 was 28%, but it increased to 73% in March, indicating that the infection is expanding rapidly.

French Prime Minister Castex announced on April 13 that all flights to and from Brazil will be suspended for the time being due to the spread of the mutated virus in Brazil.

In addition, according to the WHO report, the mutated viruses confirmed in February 2021 in the Philippines and Japan and the mutated virus confirmed in France in January 2021 are among the "notable mutant strains" next to the three mutant viruses. 6 such as the mutated virus that has been introduced.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus cluster in Tokyo also confirms infection of 80 people, the highest number in a day (4/13)

April 13, 2021

On April 13, it was newly confirmed that 80 people in Tokyo, the largest number to date, were infected with a virus with a mutation of "N501Y", which is said to be highly infectious. Seven of them were patients and staff who were infected in the same hospital, and according to the city, it is the first time that a cluster of mutated viruses has been confirmed in Tokyo.

On April 13, it was confirmed that 80 new people in Tokyo were infected with a virus with a mutation of "N501Y", which is said to be highly infectious.

The number of people announced by the city on a single day surpassed the number of people on April 12, which was 61, and was the highest ever.

By age group, 29 people in their 20s are the most common, followed by 14 people in their 30s.

Combining people in their 20s and 30s, there are 43 people, more than half of the total.

First cluster confirmed by mutated virus in Tokyo

7 out of 80 people are 4 patients and 3 staff who were infected in the same hospital.

Twelve people have been confirmed to be infected at this hospital, including the seven confirmed on April 13, and according to the city, it is the first time that a cluster of mutated viruses has been confirmed in Tokyo. That's it.

With this, a total of 336 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus in Tokyo.

One of them died.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus epidemic in the United States Possibility of weakening effect due to high immunity in Japanese (4/13)

April 13, 2021

A group from the University of Tokyo and others has reported that some of the effects of the mutated virus of the new coronavirus, which is prevalent in California, the United States, may be weakened by the type of immunity that is common in Japanese people. I made it public.

This research was compiled by a group led by Associate Professor Kei Sato of the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo, and published using a system called a "preprint server" that publishes papers before they have undergone formal review. .

In addition to "antibodies", human immunity has a mechanism called "cell-mediated immunity" in which white blood cells and other cells directly repel viruses.

The group focused on this "cell-mediated immunity" and investigated whether white blood cells of the type "HLA-A24", which is said to be possessed by 60% of Japanese people, can repel viruses.

As a result, it was confirmed in cell experiments that the function of the mutant virus with the mutation "L452R", which is prevalent mainly in California, USA, is reduced.

According to the group, it seems that a different immune function actually works, but if the white blood cells are of this type, the effect of immunity may decrease.

This mutant virus has been confirmed to be infected with one person in Okinawa in April in Japan.

Associate Professor Sato said, ``Cell-mediated immunity plays an important role in human immunity.

Back to Table of Contents

Start of original PCR test for "N501Y" mutant virus Sumida-ku, Tokyo (4/12)

April 12, 2021

Amidst the spread of new coronavirus mutations, Sumida Ward, Tokyo, has established a system to independently check whether it is a mutation strain at the ward's facility and has begun testing.

In Sumida Ward, Tokyo, from April 8, the ward's PCR test room began its own test to determine whether it is a new corona mutation strain.

In the test, it is possible to confirm whether it is a virus with a mutation called "N501Y", which is said to be highly infectious and has spread in the United Kingdom.

Until now, it took several days to send samples to the country or the capital and get the results.

In the end, it will be sent to a national laboratory for confirmation, but since the ward can test it on its own, it will be possible to divide the hospital room as a patient with a mutant strain before it is confirmed. , It means that the active epidemiological survey to investigate the infection route will also be connected to the patient of the mutant strain.

In the ward, all samples that are positive in the ▽ PCR laboratory will be tested for mutation strains, and ▽ private inspection companies will be responsible for testing mutation strains from mid-April.

Itaru Nishizuka, Director of the Sumida Ward Public Health Center, said, "We are dealing with a virus that is more infectious than ever, but we want to delay the 'fourth wave' until we can vaccinate many people. One decision that will lead to countermeasures. As a material, it will be a weapon to know whether it is a mutant strain in the shortest time."

Back to Table of Contents

Osaka Mutant Virus Approximately 60% under 30s Estimated number of secured beds next week (4/9)

April 9, 2021

In Osaka Prefecture, on April 8, it was confirmed that 905 people, the highest number ever, were newly infected with the new coronavirus.

A mutated virus that is believed to be one of the reasons for the rapid spread of infection. According to Osaka Prefecture's survey of the ages of those infected with the mutated virus until April 5, nearly 60% of those infected were in their 30s or younger.

In future simulations conducted by Osaka Prefecture, it is estimated that the number of new infected people per day will exceed 1400 as of April 14, and the number of patients will also be secured by next week. It is estimated that the number of hospital beds will exceed the current number, and there are concerns that the medical system will be overwhelmed.

Percentage of mutated viruses Approximately 60% of people under the age of 30

The mutated virus is thought to be one of the reasons for the rapid spread of infection.

When the Osaka Prefectural Government examined the ages of those infected with the mutated virus confirmed by April 5, it tended to be more common in the younger generation.

The percentage of people in their 30s or younger is 58.2%, of which 46.4% are in their 20s or younger, accounting for nearly half of the total.

Osaka Prefecture has designated the period from October 10, 2020 to February 28, 2021 as the "third wave", but in the "third wave", 45.6 of all infected people under the age of 30 %, 32.2% of all infected people are under the age of 20, and compared to the "third wave", infection with mutated viruses tends to be more common in younger generations.

The mutated virus is more severe than the "3rd wave"

The number of people infected with the mutated virus of the new coronavirus, which continues to increase in Osaka Prefecture, is more severe than the 3rd wave of infected people as a whole. There is a tendency for the rate of conversion to increase.

Osaka Prefecture investigated the percentage of severe cases among all "third wave" infected people and all mutated virus infected people found by April 5th.

According to this, the percentage of severe cases was 3.2% for those infected with the third wave, while it was 4.7% for those infected with the mutated virus.

The number of days from onset to severe symptoms was 8 days for the third wave, but 6.5 days for the mutated virus, indicating that the mutated virus tends to become severe in a short period of time. .

The Osaka Prefectural Government said, ``At the moment, the number of people infected with the mutated virus is small, so it is difficult to make a simple comparison with the conventional strain, but the rate of aggravation tends to be higher than the conventional strain.''

According to an estimate by Osaka Prefecture, the number of infected people on April 14 will exceed 1,400

The number of infected people in Osaka Prefecture on April 8 was 905, a record high for three consecutive days. , surpassed 900 for the first time.

What will happen to the number of infected people in the future? Osaka Prefecture is also simulating the number of new infections in the future.

Based on the trend of the number of infected people as of March 31, assuming that the number of new infections after that will double compared to the previous week, what will happen to the number of new infections per day? Calculated.

As a result, we estimate that the number of newly infected people in Osaka Prefecture will be 1426 as of April 14th.

The number of severely ill patients in Osaka exceeds the prefectural estimate

Osaka Prefecture is also conducting a simulation of the number of seriously ill patients.

It is estimated that there will be 156 people on April 13th and 166 people on April 14th, but as of April 7th, the number of seriously ill people was 158, and the prefectural government has already It is increasing at a pace that exceeds calculations.

Osaka Prefecture Estimated to exceed the number of beds secured by next week

In Osaka Prefecture's simulation, the number of patients with mild and moderate illness was 2,545 on April 14. It is estimated that the number of victims will reach 2,704 on April 14.

However, this estimation result exceeds the number of beds secured by Osaka Prefecture as of April 7, ▽ 1766 beds for patients with mild to moderate illness, ▽ 2416 beds for accommodation medical treatment. As a result, there are concerns about the strain on the medical system.

Government Subcommittee Chairman Omi "Clearly a different phase than before"

Chairman Shigeru Omi of the government subcommittee on new coronavirus countermeasures said that highly contagious mutated viruses are mainly in Kansai. Regarding the current situation spreading to ``In Osaka and other places, the virus has become more dense in the city, and mutant strains have spread, and it has clearly entered a different phase than before. In order to turn the number of cases into a downward trend, simply shortening the business hours of restaurants is not enough. It will be important to do this as a package," he said.

On top of that, ``It is almost certain that the number of infected people will increase in Tokyo, and it is a very difficult situation, and there is no doubt that we are approaching a critical moment. It is necessary, and everyone is required to survive until vaccination of the elderly is completed."

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus infectivity average 1.32 times higher than conventional virus (4/8)

April 8, 2021

For the mutated virus confirmed in the UK, which is said to be highly infectious, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases calculated the "effective reproduction number", which indicates the ease of spread of infection, from infection cases in Japan. We summarized the analysis results that it was 1.32 times higher than the conventional virus on average.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has determined that the mutated virus, which was first confirmed in the UK, is likely to spread from the infection cases reported in Japan from February 1, 2021 to March 22, 2021. was analyzed.

As a result, the numerical value "effective reproduction number", which indicates how many people one person infects, was 1.32 times higher for the mutant virus than for the conventional virus.

Currently, this type of mutated virus is mainly in Kansai, but the proportion is increasing little by little in Tokyo. It can be difficult to control," he said.

Takaji Wakita, Director of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said, ``During the period we analyzed, we can say that the mutated virus is more infectious than the conventional virus. There are also predictions that it will increase.It may lead to a rapid spread of infection, so it is necessary to take measures quickly."

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus spreading in Osaka Infection power up to 1.7 times What should be done? (4/7)

April 7, 2021

Osaka Prefecture announced on April 6 that 719 people, the highest number ever, were confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus.

This has exceeded the number of infected people in Tokyo for eight consecutive days, but one of the causes of the rapid spread of infection is a mutated virus.

In Kansai, many mutant viruses of the type first found in England have been confirmed. We asked an expert how it differs from previous viruses and what to do about infection control.

Proportion of Mutant Virus Gradually Increases

The percentage of people confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus is gradually increasing.

Osaka Prefecture has been conducting screening tests since January 2021 to find out how much the mutated new coronavirus has spread.

Since the test subjects include close contacts of the mutated virus, Osaka Prefecture says that this percentage does not immediately indicate the overall situation of the spread of the mutated virus, but the percentage continues to rise. I'm here.

66.5% in the week ending March 27th. Among those who have tested, it is calculated that 2 out of 3 people are infected with the mutated virus.

Up to 1.7 times more infectious "British type"

A variant virus of the first type found in the UK is commonly confirmed in Kansai.

According to the WHO summary, this mutant virus is said to be up to 1.7 times more infectious than the conventional type, and this is considered to be one of the reasons for the spread of infection.

This virus has a mutation called "N501Y", which changes the protrusions on the surface that serve as a foothold for the virus to infect humans, making it easier to infect, making it more infectious. It is believed that

I will look at how the mutant virus differs from the conventional type in three points.

What does it mean to be highly contagious?

What do we need to be careful about against mutated viruses?

It has been pointed out that it is easy to get infected in any age because it is highly contagious and can be infected even with a small amount of virus.

In particular, children were said to be less susceptible to infection with the conventional type compared to other age groups, but it is thought that with the mutated virus, they will be infected in the same way as other age groups.

Dr. Yoshinori Yasui of Osaka Prefecture Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital, who is familiar with infectious diseases, says that it is necessary to be careful because the infection may spread easily among children.

(Dr. Yasui) "Even if there are fewer viruses than before, they will be infected. Group infections may occur between children or at facilities where group infections have rarely been seen so far. Schools. There is a risk that it will spread to each household through kindergartens, kindergartens, and nursery schools, and further infection control measures must be taken at schools, kindergartens, and nursery schools."

What is the risk of severe disease and death?

We still don't know much about the risk of severe illness or death.

However, according to WHO, the risk of hospitalization, serious illness, and death may increase.

Experts point out that it is necessary to collect cases of mutated viruses and examine them in detail in the future.

How effective is the vaccine against the mutated virus?

I am very curious if the vaccine is effective against the mutated virus.

According to WHO, there is no significant change in the efficacy of the vaccine for the mutated virus first reported in the UK.

Also, in Israel, a paper was published stating that Pfizer's vaccine was 94% effective in preventing the onset and 92% effective in preventing infection, and was found in the UK during the period analyzed. Since the mutated virus was prevalent, it is suggested that it is effective against this mutated virus.

Vaccinations for the elderly will begin on April 12th, but it will take time to reach everyone.

Experts point out that it is important to suppress explosive infections until a vaccine is available.

(Dr. Yoshinori Yasui, Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital, Osaka Prefecture) "I think we should think that the number of patients is still suppressed to this extent because we are taking measures against infection. If the number of patients does not decrease easily, , There may come a time when stronger measures, such as restrictions on going out, will come.I think the next month or two will be very important.While suppressing the rate of increase in the number of infected people, vaccines will be available. It is important to increase the vaccination rate.”

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus infection increased by about 1.6 times from the previous week (4/7)

April 7, 2021

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has revealed that more than 200 new infections were confirmed in Japan in the week until the 6th, regarding the mutated new coronavirus that is spreading in the United Kingdom and South Africa. Compared to the previous week, it has increased about 1.6 times.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as a result of extracting some people from newly infected people and analyzing the genes of the specimens, a total of 208 people in 22 prefectures in the week until April 6th, the United Kingdom and It was confirmed that he had been infected with a mutated virus spreading in South Africa and Brazil. 79 cases, 61% higher than the number confirmed in the previous week. 90% of it is a mutated virus that is spreading in the UK.

By prefecture, the largest number was 75 in Osaka, 22 in Hokkaido, 17 in Chiba, 16 in Hyogo, 11 in Kagawa and Ehime, and 10 in Mie. ▽8 in Kanagawa, ▽7 in Gifu, ▽6 in Nara, ▽5 in Tokyo, ▽3 in Aichi and Nagasaki, ▽2 in Akita, Saitama, Okayama, Yamaguchi and Tokushima, ▽Wakayama and Shimane , Kochi, and Fukuoka each have one person.

Among them, Akita, Shimane, Yamaguchi, and Nagasaki were confirmed to be infected for the first time.

To date, a total of 886 people in 38 prefectures have been confirmed to be infected in Japan.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is strengthening its surveillance system, such as asking local governments to examine samples of people infected with the new coronavirus as much as possible.

More than 1,000 people infected, including quarantine

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, 38 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus reported in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil. There are 886 people in all prefectures.

Of these, ▽ 60 in Hokkaido, ▽ 2 in Akita, ▽ 5 in Fukushima, ▽ 1 in Ibaraki, ▽ 2 in Tochigi, ▽ 3 in Gunma, ▽ 61 in Saitama, ▽ Chiba ▽ 23 in Tokyo, ▽ 42 in Kanagawa, ▽ 32 in Niigata, ▽ 1 in Ishikawa, ▽ 2 in Fukui, ▽ 2 in Yamanashi, ▽ 1 in Nagano, ▽ 22 in Gifu ▽ 22 in Shizuoka, ▽ 5 in Aichi, ▽ 17 in Mie, ▽ 4 in Shiga, ▽ 24 in Kyoto, ▽ 205 in Osaka, ▽ 197 in Hyogo, ▽ 7 in Nara, ▽ 3 in Wakayama, ▽ 1 in Shimane, ▽ 12 in Okayama, ▽ 23 in Hiroshima, ▽ 2 in Yamaguchi, ▽ 17 in Tokushima, ▽ 13 in Kagawa, ▽ 17 in Ehime, ▽ Kochi ▽ 7 people in Fukuoka, ▽ 3 people in Nagasaki, ▽ 1 person in Oita, ▽ 5 people in Kagoshima, ▽ 1 person in Okinawa.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, these are the numbers confirmed to be mutated viruses as a result of genetic analysis, and do not include the number announced by the local government before genetic analysis was performed.

In addition, quarantine has confirmed 152 infections so far, and the mutated virus found in the Philippines has also been detected.

Combined with the quarantine, the total number of people infected with the mutated virus confirmed in Japan has risen to 1038.

Back to Table of Contents

Mayor of Sendai City, which has confirmed a large number of mutated viruses, “Consider strengthening the inspection system” (4/6)

April 6, 2021

In response to the confirmation of a large number of the mutated virus "E484K" of the new coronavirus in Sendai City, the county mayor of Sendai City has indicated his intention to consider strengthening the inspection system for the mutated virus.

"E484K" is one of the mutations of the new coronavirus, and it has been pointed out that the vaccine may be less effective and the possibility of reinfection may become easier.

In Sendai City, as a result of examining some of the specimens confirmed to be infected from late February 2021 to March 25, 167 cases, or about 80%, were confirmed to have the "E484K" mutant virus. rice field.

Confirmation of this mutated virus is done by sending samples to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases and analyzing genetic information, but the mayor of the county said at a regular press conference on April 6, ``Entrusted to the current country. In some cases, the investigation of the source of infection is insufficient, so we will proceed with the steady implementation of mutation strain testing and early detection. .

Also, regarding the application of ``Priority measures to prevent the spread of infection'' from April 5, the county mayor said, ``I am sorry, but we have to suppress the infection within the period of application. I would like people to have a sense of crisis and ask restaurants and other businesses to do their utmost to bring the infection under control."

Back to Table of Contents

Sendai City Mutant virus "E484K" is 80% New Corona infection after February (4/5)

April 5, 2021

When Sendai City examined some of the samples confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus after February 2021, it revealed that 80% were a mutated virus called 'E484K'.

According to Sendai City, some 208 specimens confirmed to be infected in the city from February to March 25, 2021 were examined by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, and were called "E484K". It means that 167 cases of 80% of the mutated viruses have been confirmed.

"E484K" is thought to have the property of escaping from antibody attack, and it has been pointed out that the vaccine may be less effective and the possibility of reinfection may become easier.

On the other hand, no changes have been reported so far, such as a marked increase in infectivity or intensification of symptoms.

The mayor of Sendai City reported these contents at the city council and said, ``How to deal with the E484K mutation is the issue we are facing now, but we need to thoroughly implement basic preventive measures. It's over,' he said.

Infectious disease control expert ``Need to continue to investigate''

Professor Mitsuo Kaku of Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, who is familiar with infectious disease control, said, ``It became one of the factors for the spread of infection in Miyagi Prefecture. It's possible, but I don't think E484K will have any impact on vaccines at the moment.

According to Professor Kaku, the trend of mutated viruses confirmed so far is that in Osaka and other Kansai regions, there is a high percentage of mutations called "N501Y," which is said to increase infectivity, and in eastern Japan such as Tokyo, "E484K." This means that the proportion of

Back to Table of Contents

Expansion in Tokyo? What is the mutated virus “E484K” (4/2)

April 2, 2021

E484K, a new type of mutated coronavirus that is different from the one that spread in the UK, South Africa, etc. It is a type that has been pointed out that the effects of immunity and vaccines may decrease.

A research group at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, which was detected in one-third of the patients confirmed to be infected, said that this mutant virus may have replaced the conventional virus in Tokyo. increase.

What is the "E484K" mutation

"E484K" is one of the mutations of the new coronavirus, and the 484th amino acid of the "spike protein" has changed. I mean

It is believed that this mutation has the property of escaping from antibody attack, and it has been pointed out that there is a possibility that reinfection may become easier and vaccines may be less effective.

So far, the mutant virus confirmed in South Africa and the mutant virus that spread in Brazil are known to have this mutation in addition to the mutation called "N501Y", which is said to increase infectivity.

This time, a mutant virus that does not have "N501Y" but has "E484K" was reported.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, by March 3, 2021, 2 cases of similar viruses were found in airport quarantines, and 394 cases in Japan, and it seems that they mainly entered Japan from overseas. However, the Keio University group reported that there were cases in which mutations were thought to have occurred in Japan.

The nature of this mutant virus is not yet known in detail, but so far there have been no reports of changes such as markedly increased infectivity or stronger symptoms.

Also, the screening of mutant strains currently being carried out by local governments nationwide finds the mutation of "N501Y", and in order to find "E484K", it is necessary to analyze the genetic information in detail.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases will continue to analyze and monitor genetic information about this mutant virus to understand the actual situation.

What is "E484K"?

The mutation called "E484K" means that the 484th amino acid of the "spike protein" is replaced by lysine (K) instead of glutamic acid (abbreviation E). .

What is "N501Y"?

The mutation called "N501Y" means that amino acid 501 of the "spike protein" is replaced with tyrosine (abbreviation Y) from asparagine (abbreviation N).

Mutant viruses are classified according to which part of the genetic information is mutated.

Among these, the following three types are currently listed by the WHO = World Health Organization as "variant strains of concern = VOCs".

A mutated virus found in the UK

A mutated virus that was found in the UK in December 2020 and has since spread around the world.

The most frequently reported mutated virus in Japan, officially named "VOC-202012/01".

It is known that this virus has a mutation called "N501Y" in the "spike protein".

This means that the 501st amino acid of the "spike protein" has been replaced from asparagine (abbreviation N) to tyrosine (abbreviation Y).

According to the WHO summary, the infectivity is 36% to 75% higher than the conventional virus, and if infected, the risk of hospitalization, severe illness, and death may be higher. is.

Mutant virus found in South Africa

Another is a mutant virus found in South Africa.

Officially called "501Y.V2".

This mutant virus has the "N501Y" mutation, just like the mutant virus found in England.

Furthermore, it is known that a mutation called "E484K" has also occurred.

This means that the 484th amino acid of the "spike protein" has been replaced from glutamic acid (abbreviation E) to lysine (abbreviation K).

According to the WHO summary, compared to conventional viruses, it seems to be 50% more contagious, and there is a report from South Africa that the hospital mortality rate is 20% higher.

A mutated virus that spread in Brazil

And another is a mutated virus that spread in Brazil.

It was first found in airport quarantine for people who came to Japan from Brazil.

This is the same mutated virus found in South Africa, with both ``N501Y'' and ``E484K'' mutations.

According to the WHO summary, it seems to be more infectious than conventional viruses, but the severity of infection is under investigation, but the impact is limited.

Back to Table of Contents

Hyogo Prefecture: 80% of positive people are UK mutation virus prefecture's own test (4/1)

April 1, 2021

Hyogo Prefecture's own mutated virus test for the new coronavirus found that 80% of the 70 samples tested in the last week were mutated viruses that spread in the UK. . Governor Ido expressed the view that the spread of the mutated virus has led to a rapid increase in the number of patients.

Hyogo Prefecture is conducting its own tests at the local public health research institute in the prefecture in order to investigate the infection status of the mutated new coronavirus, and has announced the latest test results.

Accordingly, in the week ending March 21st, of the 70 positive samples tested, 56, or 80%, were mutated viruses that spread in the UK.

The previous week until March 14th was 52.6%, so the prefecture says the percentage of mutated viruses is rapidly increasing.

Governor Ido said at a press conference, "Mutant strains are being replaced by normal strains. Kansai may be the first to spread.In addition, most of the close contacts in the home are positive. This may come from the susceptibility of the mutant strain to infection, ”he said, showing the view that the spread of the mutant virus has led to a rapid increase in the number of patients.

Back to Table of Contents

French mutation virus spread Restrictions on going out and business Schools will be closed nationwide (4/1)

April 1, 2021

As the mutated new coronavirus continues to spread in France, President Macron has extended measures nationwide to restrict residents from going out and retail stores to operate, and has continued to hold face-to-face classes so far. He also announced that he would be closing the school.

In France, the number of infected people on March 31 exceeded 59,000, and more than 5,000 people were being treated in the intensive care unit, and from the medical field. are calling for stronger measures.

President Macron gave a televised speech on the night of March 31, stating that ``the spread of the mutated virus is rapid regardless of location, and the number of hospitalized patients is increasing,'' and the recognition that the infection is spreading to younger generations. showed.

On top of that, he announced that measures to restrict the outings of residents and the opening of retail stores in Paris and northern areas will be extended nationwide from the evening of April 3 and will be implemented for four weeks. This is the third time that the nationwide curfew has been implemented following the spring and autumn of 2020.

In addition, schools that have continued face-to-face classes will be closed for three weeks from April 5th.

On the other hand, he also indicated that he would like to gradually lift the restrictions in mid-May by accelerating vaccination.

Accelerating vaccination

From April, the French government will set up large-scale vaccination venues in more than 100 locations in the country to accelerate vaccination.

In France, about 11% of the population has been vaccinated at least once so far, and there are also voices criticizing the government for being far behind the UK, which exceeds 46%.

For this reason, the Macron administration plans to establish more than 100 new large-scale vaccination venues in the country, and on March 31, one of the venues, a soccer stadium near Paris, was opened to the media. At the event venue in the stadium, work was being done to set up booths for reception and vaccination.

In addition, a call center will be set up at the stadium to accept reservations for vaccinations, and we plan to inoculate 10,000 people a week at this venue alone.

France as a whole aims to have about 30% of the population vaccinated at least once in mid-May.

President Macron said in a televised speech on March 31, ``We will take all possible measures to vaccinate without resting on holidays and weekends as we do on weekdays,'' to accelerate vaccination. I showed my willingness to do my best.

The Macron administration would like to put a brake on the infection by accelerating vaccination, and also pave the way for the resumption of the economy, which has been hit hard by tourism and the restaurant industry.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus 129 new infections confirmed in the week until March 30 (3/31)

March 31, 2021

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has announced that 129 new infections were confirmed in Japan in the week ending March 30, regarding the mutated new coronavirus that is spreading in the United Kingdom and South Africa.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as a result of extracting some of the newly infected people and analyzing the genes of the samples, a total of 129 people in 20 prefectures in the week until March 30th It was confirmed that he had been infected with a mutated virus spreading in , South Africa, and Brazil.

Twenty-one people, or 14% less than the number confirmed the previous week.

▽Hokkaido and Osaka prefecture had the most 25 people each, followed by ▽Hyogo prefecture with 20 people, ▽Hiroshima prefecture with 8 people, ▽Mie prefecture with 7 people, ▽Gifu and Tokushima prefectures, and Fukuoka prefecture. ▽ 5 people in Shizuoka Prefecture, ▽ 4 people in Kanagawa Prefecture, ▽ 3 people in Okayama Prefecture, ▽ 2 people each in Fukui Prefecture, Aichi Prefecture, Shiga Prefecture, Wakayama Prefecture, and Kochi Prefecture, ▽ Saitama Prefecture and Chiba Prefecture, Nara Prefecture, and Oita Prefecture each have one person.

Of these, Fukui, Aichi, Mie, Nara, Wakayama, Kochi, Fukuoka, and Oita prefectures were confirmed to be infected for the first time.

A total of 678 people in 34 prefectures have been confirmed to be infected so far, and more than 90% (92%) of them have detected the mutated virus confirmed in the UK. .

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare will strengthen containment by requesting local governments where mutated viruses have been confirmed to examine samples of people infected with the new coronavirus as much as possible.

Infection status across the country

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, 38 cases of mutated viruses reported in the UK, South Africa, and Brazil have been confirmed so far in Hokkaido. (+25 people) ▽ 5 people in Fukushima Prefecture, ▽ 1 person in Ibaraki Prefecture, ▽ 2 people in Tochigi Prefecture, ▽ 3 people in Gunma Prefecture, ▽ 59 people in Saitama Prefecture (+ 1 person), ▽ 21 people in Chiba Prefecture (+1), ▽18 in Tokyo, ▽34 in Kanagawa (+4), ▽32 in Niigata, ▽1 in Ishikawa, ▽2 in Fukui (+2), ▽Yamanashi 2 prefectures, ▽ 1 person in Nagano prefecture, ▽ 15 people in Gifu prefecture (+ 6 people), ▽ 22 people in Shizuoka prefecture (+ 5 people), ▽ 2 people in Aichi prefecture (+ 2 people), ▽ 7 in Mie prefecture ▽ Shiga prefecture 4 people (+2 people) ▽ Kyoto prefecture 24 people ▽ Osaka prefecture 130 people (+25 people) ▽ Hyogo prefecture 181 people (+20 people) ▽ Nara prefecture 1 person (+1), ▽2 in Wakayama (+2), ▽10 in Okayama (+3), ▽23 in Hiroshima (+8), ▽15 in Tokushima (+6), ▽ 2 people in Kagawa Prefecture, ▽ 6 people in Ehime Prefecture, ▽ 2 people in Kochi Prefecture (+2 people), ▽ 6 people in Fukuoka Prefecture (+6 people), ▽ 1 person in Oita Prefecture (+1 person), ▽ Kagoshima Prefecture 5 people, ▽ Okinawa Prefecture is 1 person, and the total of 34 prefectures is 678 people.

In addition, quarantine has confirmed 123 (+23) infections, including the virus found in the Philippines.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, these are the number of people who have been "confirmed" as a mutant virus as a result of genetic analysis, and do not include the number of people announced by the local government at the "suspicious" stage before genetic analysis is performed. is.

7 people died by March 30

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, 7 men and women were confirmed dead nationwide by March 30 among those infected with the mutated virus. I'm here.

There is 1 person in their 60s and 6 people in their 80s or older.

Back to Table of Contents

"Mutant virus confirmed in UK spread to 130 countries and regions" WHO report (3/31)

March 31, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has announced that the mutated new coronavirus first identified in the UK has spread to 130 countries and regions around the world, and the mutated virus confirmed in South Africa and Brazil continues to spread. released a report stating that

According to the report, as of March 30, the number of countries and territories with reports of the first confirmed mutated virus in the UK has increased by 5 from the previous week to 130.

There were also 5 more countries and territories reporting another mutated virus that was first confirmed in South Africa compared to the previous week,80, and another 4 more mutated viruses confirmed in Brazil. I am 45.

These three mutant viruses have genetic mutations that may affect their infectivity and immune efficacy, and the WHO has designated them as ``concerned mutants'' and strengthened surveillance.

In addition, the following "notable mutations" include the mutated virus confirmed in February 2021 in the Philippines and Japan, and the mutated virus confirmed in France in January 2021. added, bringing the total to six.

The number of new coronavirus infections continues to rise globally, especially in Brazil, the United States, India, France, and Poland.

Back to Table of Contents

Tokyo strengthens testing for mutated viruses Challenges to create a system at the request of private institutions (3/25)

March 25, 2021

In order to strengthen the inspection of the mutated new coronavirus, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government plans to seek cooperation from private inspection institutions to expand the scale. Private-sector tests account for 90% of all tests in Tokyo, but when new tests for mutated viruses are introduced, it is necessary to acquire know-how, etc., and the issue is to quickly create a system.

In Tokyo, tests to see if it is a mutated virus, which is said to be highly infectious, are being conducted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Safety Research Center and one private testing agency that has cooperated since February.

However, currently, about 10% of new positive people in Tokyo can be tested, and the city aims to increase this percentage to about 25% in early April and then to 40%. I'm here.

To that end, the city wants to not only increase testing at research centers, but also expand the scale of testing for mutated viruses at private laboratories, which account for about 93% of normal testing.

However, since the method of testing for mutated viruses is different from normal testing, when introducing a new method, it is necessary to acquire the know-how of the person in charge and secure inspection personnel.

As the number of confirmed infections continues to increase in Tokyo, according to the city, many private testing institutions do not have a system for testing mutated viruses, and the issue is to quickly create a system.

For this reason, the city plans to create a system to transport positive samples from private testing institutions to the city's research center and test them for mutated viruses.

City Advances "Strategic Testing"

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is promoting "strategic testing" to catch clusters at an early stage and monitor the spread of infection.

On March 19, three medical institutions in Katsushika Ward began testing doctors and nurses to catch clusters at an early stage.

In the future, we plan to regularly promote it at facilities for the elderly in other areas.

In addition, in order to monitor the spread of infection, inspections that are carried out in downtown areas and specific areas are supported by Edogawa Ward's inspections of izakaya and karaoke store employees. I'm thinking of going ahead with it.

Back to Table of Contents

150 confirmed infections in one week, up 17% from the previous week (3/24)

March 24, 2021

In the week ending March 23, 150 people were newly confirmed to have been infected with the mutated new coronavirus spreading in the United Kingdom, South Africa and elsewhere. That's nearly double the number from the previous week.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as a result of extracting samples from some of the newly infected people and analyzing their genes, a total of 150 people in 12 prefectures in the week until March 23rd were infected in England, South Africa, and It was confirmed that he had been infected with the mutated virus spreading in Brazil.

This is 22 more than the previous week's 128, or 17% higher than the number.

▽ Hyogo Prefecture has the most 67 people, followed by ▽ Osaka Prefecture with 33 people, ▽ Chiba Prefecture with 19 people, ▽ Shizuoka Prefecture with 10 people, ▽ Gifu Prefecture with 5 people, ▽ Tokyo and Okayama Prefecture with 4 each. ▽ Hiroshima Prefecture has 3 people, ▽ Kanagawa Prefecture has 2 people, ▽ Tochigi Prefecture and Saitama Prefecture, and ▽ Kagawa Prefecture has 1 person each.

Infection in a wide range of ages, including children

In Japan, a wide range of ages, including children, are infected with the mutated virus.

When the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare examined the ages of the 405 people infected with the mutated virus confirmed by March 16, ▽ the most common was 67 people in their 40s, or 17%. , ▽ The next most common was children under the age of 10, 59 people, or 15%, and ▽ teens, 48 ​​people, or 12%.

Teenage and younger make up about a quarter of the total.

In other age groups, ▽ 35 people in their 20s, a rate of 9%, ▽ 54 people in their 30s, 13%, ▽ 45 people in their 50s, 11%, ▽ 25 people in their 60s, 6%, ▽ 27 people in their 70s, 7%, ▽ 35 people over 80, 9%.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, according to the opinion of the UK expert meeting, it is reported that children are not more susceptible to mutated viruses than adults, and that they may be more susceptible to infection at any age. It means that there is

Outbreaks of mutated viruses in Japan

In Japan, outbreaks of mutated viruses involving children are also occurring.

In Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, in March, a cluster occurred at an after-school children's party attended by elementary school students, and by March 23, 33 people, including children and staff, were confirmed to be infected.

All are believed to have been infected with a mutating virus spreading in the UK.

All of them had mild or no symptoms, and the elementary school where the children's association was established was temporarily closed.

Also, in February, an outbreak of a mutated virus was revealed at a children's facility in Saitama Prefecture, and a total of 20 people, including children and staff, were confirmed to be infected.

The Japan Pediatric Society "It is not particularly common in children"

Regarding mutated viruses, experts in Japan and overseas have said that there is currently no data that the risk is particularly high in children. views are presented.

Of these, the Japan Pediatric Society posted its opinion on the mutant virus on its web page.

According to that, it is known that the mutated virus has a stronger ability to infect other people than the conventional virus, and the mutated virus that has started to spread in the UK is said to be "in Japan There have been reports of clusters of this mutant strain at facilities where children gather, and many children have been infected.However, in London, England, where the mutant strain has already spread, infections due to the mutant strain are particularly common among children. However, the proportion of adults and children infected has not changed significantly before and after the emergence of the mutant strain."

And, ``Most of the infected people in children have no symptoms or mild symptoms, and there is no difference between the existing strain and the mutant strain. Frequent symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, diarrhea, and headache. There is no evidence to date that mutant strains can cause more severe symptoms in children.While countermeasures against mutant strains have not changed, particularly highly contagious viruses There is concern about the spread of infection to small children who cannot take appropriate measures.In the future, it is necessary to carefully monitor the spread of mutant strains in Japan and the number of infected children."

WHO ``is more susceptible to infection in all ages''

Apart from this, the WHO = World Health Organization has reported that the mutated virus that spread in the United Kingdom has been tested in all ages, including children. It is said that it is easier to get infected in , and that children are at higher risk than other age groups.

WHO experts say that during the time when the mutated virus spread, schools in the UK were not closed, and it seems that the infection spread among children.

On top of that, although research on the mutated virus is currently underway, research in the UK suggests that children are not particularly susceptible to this mutated virus.

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona “Rapidly Replaced by Mutant Viruses” WHO Reports (3/24)

March 24, 2021

The WHO = World Health Organization has released a report that the proportion of mutated viruses has increased in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil, where mutated new coronaviruses have been confirmed, and that they are rapidly replacing conventional viruses. bottom.

According to a report dated March 23, among these, in the United Kingdom and South Africa, the mutated viruses confirmed in each country will rapidly replace the conventional new coronavirus and be detected after the fall of 2020. It means that it has come to occupy most of things.

Also in Brazil, the proportion of mutated viruses is said to account for about half.

In addition, the "effective reproduction number", which indicates how many people are infected from one infected person, is 41% for the first confirmed mutant virus in the UK and 36% for the first confirmed mutant virus in South Africa. %, and 11% for the mutant virus confirmed in Brazil, each estimated to be higher than the conventional virus.

Countries and regions that reported mutated viruses were 125 with 7 more mutated viruses compared to the previous week in the UK, 11 more mutated viruses in South Africa with 75, and 41 with 3 more mutated viruses in Brazil. It is

The WHO has designated these three viruses as "mutants of concern" and is strengthening surveillance, but in the report, two new mutant viruses have been added to the "mutants of note" next to these. I'm assuming.

On the other hand, the number of people infected with the new coronavirus around the world reported in the week ending March 21st decreased from the previous week for four consecutive weeks due to the increase in Brazil, India, and France. The number of deaths, which had been decreasing for six consecutive weeks, also increased.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus "Strengthening the monitoring system for increasing the inspection rate" Economic Revitalization Minister Nishimura (3/23)

March 23, 2021

Regarding measures against the new coronavirus, Minister of Economic Revitalization Nishimura proposed that the Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers should test all newly infected people for mutated viruses. He indicated the idea of ​​strengthening the monitoring system.

In response to the mutated virus, the government has decided to quickly increase the number of tests, which are performed by extracting samples from 5% to 10% of newly infected people, to about 40%.

In this situation, Minister of Economic Revitalization Nishimura met with Diet members of the Liberal Democratic Party who are qualified doctors and received a recommendation that all newly infected people be tested for mutated viruses.

In response to this, Minister Nishimura said, ``Experts are also saying that the time will come when all will be replaced by mutated viruses. I would like to monitor with the utmost vigilance," he said, expressing his intention to increase the inspection rate early and strengthen the monitoring system.

Back to Table of Contents

German Chancellor Angela Merkel announces new measures to spread mutated virus (3/23)

March 23, 2021

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced new measures, saying that the mutated new coronavirus is spreading rapidly again. In line with the Christian Easter festival in April and the Easter holiday, we are basically prohibiting the operation of stores, including food stores that have been allowed to operate.

Germany began a gradual relaxation in March, conditionally allowing retail stores and museums to reopen, but the mutated virus confirmed in the UK seems to account for more than 70% of new infections. As a result, there is increasing vigilance that the infection is spreading rapidly again.

Prime Minister Merkel held a press conference on March 23 and announced new measures to coincide with the Easter holiday in early April, when there will be more opportunities to gather with family members.

In principle, from April 1st to 5th, stores will be prohibited from operating, and grocery stores that have been permitted until now will also be prohibited from operating except for Saturday, April 3rd. increase.

In addition, we call on citizens to stay at home, and when gathering with family and friends, we limit the number of people to a maximum of 2 households and 5 people, excluding children.

Prime Minister Merkel said at a press conference, ``We are now facing a new pandemic,'' and asked for understanding of the strict measures.

Back to Table of Contents

Border measures against mutated virus Checking apps for immigrants at Narita Airport (3/23)

March 23, 2021

At Narita Airport, measures to check the smartphone application to grasp the whereabouts of immigrants began on March 23, in an effort to strengthen border measures against the mutated new coronavirus.

The government requires all immigrants, including Japanese, to wait at home or in a hotel for 14 days after entering the country. A status report is to be made.

Furthermore, from March 23rd, measures to check immigrants about these apps began at the quarantine station at Narita Airport, in an effort to strengthen measures against mutated viruses.

The staff entrusted by the government asked each immigrant to present a smartphone and checked whether an application for checking location information or a video call application was installed.

In addition, immigrants who do not have a smartphone will be asked to rent a terminal at their own expense, and a smartphone rental reception desk has been newly established.

A Japanese woman in her 30s who returned from Cuba said, "I'm reluctant to check location information and make video calls. However, there is no choice but to make everyone feel safe. I will go home and spend 14 days like this. I was talking.

Back to Table of Contents

French new corona More than 70% of new infections are mutated viruses (3/18)

March 18, 2021

In France, mutated virus infections are spreading, with the mutated virus first identified in the UK accounting for more than 70% of new infections. Regarding the current infection situation, Prime Minister Castex called for vigilance on March 16 at the National Assembly, which is the lower house, saying, ``It seems that we are experiencing a third wave of infection due to a mutated virus.''

In order to stop the spread of infection, we have restricted going out at night after 6:00 pm nationwide. We are strengthening infection control measures such as restricting residents from going out even during the daytime.

On the other hand, as the number of severely ill patients in Paris and surrounding areas increased and the beds in the intensive care unit became tighter, the government announced that over the next week, severely ill patients would be sent to hospitals in the west and southwest, where beds are relatively available. About 100 people will be transported by plane or high-speed rail.

Also, health officials have announced that another mutated virus has been newly found in eight patients who died in a hospital in western Brittany.

Of these, seven had symptoms peculiar to the new coronavirus before they were alive, but the PCR test results were negative, and more detailed blood and respiratory tests revealed infection.

Health authorities are beginning to investigate how contagious this mutant virus is, the risk of severe illness, and how widespread it is.

Back to Table of Contents

New mutated virus WHO asks each country to provide information such as characteristics (3/18)

March 18, 2021

In response to the confirmation of new mutated viruses in each country, the WHO = World Health Organization announced in a report dated March 16 that a new mutated virus that is concerned about the spread of infection has been confirmed in Japan. If confirmed, we repeatedly asked each country to provide information about the characteristics of the virus.

WHO has summarized the number of global reports of three mutated new coronaviruses, each confirmed in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil in South America, as 'variants of concern'.

According to the WHO report, as of March 16, the number of countries and regions where the first confirmed variant virus was reported in the United Kingdom increased by 7 compared to the previous week to 118. I was.

There were also 6 more mutated viruses first identified in South Africa, 64, and 6 more mutated viruses in Brazil, to 38.

Regarding the new coronavirus, different mutated viruses have been confirmed in the United States, the Philippines, and France, respectively. Although the details of the mutated virus are not known, it was revealed that it was designated as a ``notable mutant strain'' after the previous three mutated viruses, as it may be highly infectious.

The WHO states that ``the new coronavirus is constantly evolving,'' and if a new mutated virus that is feared to spread infection is newly confirmed in the country, the WHO repeatedly asks each country to provide information on the characteristics of the virus. I'm looking for

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona Government's "Basic Response Policy" Draft Enhanced Monitoring of Mutant Viruses (3/18)

March 18, 2021

With the cancellation of the state of emergency, the government has revealed a draft "basic policy" for new coronavirus countermeasures. In order to prevent the re-expansion of the infection, it is said that the nationwide surveillance system will be strengthened, such as raising the testing for mutated viruses to about 40% at an early stage.

According to that, while continuing socioeconomic activities, we will proceed with efforts to prevent the spread of infection again. It is said that the number of tests that are performed by extracting samples will be increased to about 40% at an early stage, and the nationwide monitoring system will be strengthened.

In addition, we will further promote cooperation with private testing institutions and universities to strengthen genome analysis.

Furthermore, in order to catch the signs of infection at an early stage, in February, 10 prefectures, including Osaka and Fukuoka, where the declaration was lifted, will be tested at facilities for the elderly by the end of March. In addition, from April to June, we are asking for regular and intensive inspections in entertainment districts.

And even after the declaration is lifted, we will encourage local governments and others to conduct patrol surveys to see if restaurants are following the guidelines for preventing infection, and in the event of a re-expansion of infection, we will conduct business for restaurants. It is said that it will flexibly utilize requests for shortening the time and "priority measures such as spread prevention".

On the other hand, regarding the medical care provision system, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and prefectures are working together to review plans to secure hospital beds.

Back to Table of Contents

Development of PCR reagent kit for rapid detection of mutant viruses Shimadzu Corporation (3/17)

March 17, 2021

It is a challenge to detect the mutated new coronavirus, which is said to be highly infectious, at an early stage so that countermeasures can be taken. announced that it has developed a reagent kit that can rapidly detect mutant viruses by PCR test.

Until now, the detection of mutated viruses has been done by local governments, etc., to determine whether samples are positive by PCR testing, and then using a different reagent to check for mutations in the virus gene. The disease research institute performed genome analysis of the sample and determined whether it was a mutant virus.

Shimadzu Corporation has developed a new reagent kit for PCR testing. This means that it is possible to determine at once whether or not there is a mutation.

Still, it is necessary to confirm whether it is a mutated virus by testing at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, but the company explains that it can reduce the testing process, which will lead to faster work.

Shimadzu Corporation plans to conduct research for about one to two months in order to commercialize it, but it will start providing reagent kits only to public inspection institutions.

Back to Table of Contents

Characteristics and current status of the spread of infection so far (3/17)

March 17, 2021

Among the new coronaviruses, mutations that are said to be highly infectious and ``mutant viruses'' that are said to make immunity less effective have been reported from more than 100 countries and regions around the world. Countries are on high alert.

This is a summary of the characteristics of the mutant virus that have been known so far and the tendency of the spread of infection.

Of particular concern are the mutated virus first found in the UK, the mutated virus first found in South Africa, and the mutated virus that spread in Brazil.

All of them have a mutation called "N501Y", and it is thought that the protruding part of the surface, which is a foothold when the virus infects humans, has changed so that it is easy to infect, and the infectivity is high. I'm here.

What are the characteristics of each of the three mutant viruses

1) Mutant virus first found in England

The mutated virus, which was first found in the UK, has been confirmed to be infected in 111 countries and regions by March 9, according to the WHO.

The infectiousness of this mutant virus is 36% to 75% higher in multiple studies, according to the ECDC = European Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

In addition, the British government has said that it is more likely to be involved in an increased risk of hospitalization and death than conventional viruses, and it is being verified.

On the other hand, it does not have a big impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine.

2) Mutant virus first found in South Africa

Next is the mutant virus first found in South Africa.

According to the WHO, it is said to be 50% more contagious, and as of March 9th, 58 countries and regions have been confirmed to be infected, but the severity of symptoms has not changed compared to previous viruses. I don't think so.

On the other hand, this virus is made in the body called "E484K"

It is believed that the risk of reinfection is increased due to mutations that allow it to escape attack by antibodies.

Furthermore, research has shown that antibodies are less effective at suppressing the virus, and vaccine manufacturers are still verifying that they are sufficiently effective.

3) Mutant virus spread in Brazil

And the mutated virus that spread in Brazil.

In Brazil, Manaus in the north appears to have first appeared on December 4, 2020, and as of January, 91% of cases reported in Manaus were infected with this mutant virus. That's it.

According to WHO, it is said that the infectivity is higher than before, and infection has been confirmed in 32 countries and regions by March 9, but the impact on the severity of symptoms is limited. I'm assuming

There have also been reports of re-infection of this virus due to a mutation called "E484K" that evades antibody attack.

On the other hand, the impact on vaccines is currently being investigated.

Furthermore, new mutant viruses are being discovered

In addition, in Japan, the mutation of "N501Y", which changed to make it more susceptible to infection in people who entered the country from the Philippines on February 25, and immune attacks Another mutant virus with an escaping 'E484K' mutation was reportedly detected.

In addition, nearly 400 cases of another type of mutant virus with the "E484K" mutation that escapes immune attack have been found by March 3rd.

This mutant virus does not have the "N501Y" mutation that made it easier to infect, and although it is believed that the infectivity is the same as the conventional one, some of them are thought to have mutated domestically. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases plans to grasp the actual situation through analysis of genetic information as a ``notable mutant strain''.

Mutant virus 128 new infections nationwide

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, according to genetic analysis, a total of 128 people in 11 prefectures in the week leading up to March 16 were infected. It was confirmed that he had been infected with a mutated virus spreading in , South Africa, and Brazil.

51 people, 66% higher than the number confirmed the previous week.

The breakdown is as follows: ▽Hyogo Prefecture has the most 56 people, followed by ▽Saitama Prefecture with 16 people, ▽Hokkaido with 13 people, ▽Osaka Prefecture with 10 people, ▽Tokushima Prefecture with 9 people, ▽Kanagawa Prefecture and Ehime Prefecture 6 people each, ▽Kyoto prefecture and Hiroshima prefecture each have 5 people, ▽Kagawa prefecture and Okinawa prefecture have 1 each.

This is the first time it has been confirmed in Hokkaido, Tokushima, Ehime, Kagawa, and Okinawa.

To date, 399 people have been confirmed to be infected in Japan

The number of people who have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus in Japan so far is 13 in Hokkaido and 5 in Fukushima Prefecture. ▽ 1 person in Ibaraki Prefecture, ▽ 1 person in Tochigi Prefecture, ▽ 3 people in Gunma Prefecture, ▽ 57 people in Saitama Prefecture, ▽ 1 person in Chiba Prefecture, ▽ 14 people in Tokyo, ▽ 28 people in Kanagawa Prefecture, ▽ 32 people in Niigata Prefecture, ▽ 1 person in Ishikawa Prefecture, ▽ 2 people in Yamanashi Prefecture, ▽ 1 person in Nagano Prefecture, ▽ 4 people in Gifu Prefecture, ▽ 7 people in Shizuoka Prefecture, ▽ 2 people in Shiga Prefecture, ▽ ▽ 24 people in Kyoto Prefecture, ▽ 72 people in Osaka Prefecture, ▽ 94 people in Hyogo Prefecture, ▽ 3 people in Okayama Prefecture, ▽ 12 people in Hiroshima Prefecture, ▽ 9 people in Tokushima Prefecture, ▽ 1 person in Kagawa Prefecture, ▽ Ehime Prefecture There are 6 prefectures, ▽ Kagoshima prefecture 5 people, ▽ Okinawa prefecture 1 person, for a total of 399 people.

In addition, the breakdown of the mutated virus that infected these 399 people is as follows: ▽ 374 people were infected with the mutated virus reported in the UK, ▽ 17 people in Brazil, and ▽ 8 people in South Africa. .

"Mutant virus" infection A total of 3 people died in Kanagawa and Osaka

Of those who died in Japan by March 17, those who were found to be infected with the mutant virus is 3 people.

According to Kanagawa Prefecture, two men in their 50s and 70s living in the prefecture were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus after they died.

On March 17, Osaka Prefecture also announced that it was confirmed that a woman in her 80s who died after being infected with the new coronavirus was infected with a mutated virus.

Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Summary of Hospitalization and Discharge Standards for Mutant Virus Infected Persons

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has compiled standards for hospitalization and discharge of people infected with mutant viruses, and notifies them to prefectures.

According to this, in addition to patients who have been confirmed to be infected with ▽ mutated viruses, those who are subject to hospitalization measures based on the law are ▽ immigrants who have stayed in countries and regions where mutated viruses are prevalent. People confirmed or suspected to be infected with the new coronavirus, ▽ People confirmed or suspected to be infected by close contacts of immigrants who have stayed in these countries or regions within the past 14 days It is the person who is called.

Regarding the discharge criteria for those who are subject to hospitalization, it is necessary that there is no fever of 37 degrees 5 minutes or more for 24 hours, and that respiratory symptoms are improving, and then 24 The test will be conducted twice with an interval of at least an hour, and the results will be negative in a row.

In addition, regarding the discharge criteria for asymptomatic patients infected with the mutated virus, ▽ a negative test was confirmed 6 days after the specimen was collected, and ▽ after more than 24 hours had passed. If the test is negative again, he will be allowed to leave the hospital.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare will continue to operate this standard for the time being until scientific knowledge is obtained.

Expert ``If a mutated virus becomes mainstream, the situation may get worse''

About the situation of mutated viruses in Japan, Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who specializes in public health, said, " Although there are still many unknowns to what extent it has spread within Japan, it is difficult to contain it when looking at the situation in each country, and it should be assumed that it will become a mainstream infection even in Japan. Since the beginning of the year, the number of infected people has been declining, and I think it is difficult for the general public to feel a sense of crisis, but if an epidemic of a mutated virus occurs, the speed of the spread of infection and the number of infected people will change. is likely to be tougher than it has been in the past," he said.

On the measures that should be taken after that, Professor Wada said, ``The measures taken by individuals will not change at all, but at the time of the turn of the year, many organizations will change the person in charge of infection control due to personnel changes, and the measures that have been taken so far will be successful. Some cases may not be handed over, and we have seen such cases during the same period in 2020, especially in elderly care facilities, medical institutions, and local governments. Also, it is necessary to strengthen the surveillance system, and the government should make firm rules so that mutated viruses can be detected from virus samples tested by private testing companies."

Back to Table of Contents

Characteristics of the mutated virus to be wary of (3/17)

March 17, 2021

In the new coronavirus, more than 100 countries and regions around the world have reported mutations that are said to be highly infectious and mutations that are said to make immunity less effective, and WHO = World Health Organization and Countries are on high alert. (as of March 16)

Three mutated viruses of concern

The new coronavirus repeats partial mutations in its genetic information at a pace of about two locations per month, but in most cases, the virus It does not affect infectivity or virulence.

However, some viruses have mutations that increase their infectivity or evade immune attacks, and the WHO and other countries are strengthening their surveillance system as internationally ``mutant strains of concern''.

The mutated virus that was first discovered in the UK, the mutated virus that was first discovered in South Africa, and the mutated virus that spread in ▼Brazil, all of which have a mutation called "N501Y", It is believed that the protuberances on the surface, which serve as a foothold for the virus to infect humans, have changed to make it more susceptible to infection, increasing its infectivity.

Viruses reported in the UK

Among these, the first mutant virus found in the UK was first reported in early December 2020. It is known that on September 20, 2020, there were people infected with this mutated virus.

The infectiousness of this mutant virus is 36% to 75% higher in multiple studies, according to the ECDC = European Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

In the UK, the number of infected people per day was around 10,000 in early December 2020, but it rapidly increased to 50,000 in late December, and in January. On some days, the number exceeded 60,000, and a major factor in the increase is believed to be the mutated virus.

According to WHO, this mutant virus has been confirmed to be infected in 111 countries and regions by March 9th.

In addition, the British government has said that it is more likely to be involved in an increased risk of hospitalization and death than conventional viruses, and it is being verified.

On the other hand, it does not have a big impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine.

Virus reported in South Africa

The first variant virus found in South Africa was thought to have originated in early August 2020, and an analysis conducted in South Africa in mid-November indicated that most cases is believed to be this mutant virus.

According to the WHO, it is said to be 50% more contagious, and as of March 9th, 58 countries and regions have been confirmed to be infected, but the severity of symptoms has not changed compared to previous viruses. I don't think so.

On the other hand, this virus has a mutation called "E484K" that allows it to escape attack by antibodies produced in the body, which is thought to increase the risk of reinfection.

Furthermore, research results have shown that antibodies are less effective at suppressing the virus, and each vaccine manufacturer claims that it is still sufficiently effective, but verification work is underway.

Virus spread in Brazil

The mutated virus that spread in Brazil was first detected on January 6th this year in a person who arrived in Japan from Brazil.

In Brazil, Manaus in the north appears to have first appeared on December 4, 2020, and as of January, 91% of cases reported in Manaus were infected with this mutant virus. That's it.

According to WHO, it is said that the infectivity is higher than before, and infection has been confirmed in 32 countries and regions by March 9, but the impact on the severity of symptoms is limited. I'm assuming

Also, like the mutated virus first reported in South Africa, this virus has a mutation called "E484K" that escapes antibody attack, so there have been reports of reinfection.

On the other hand, the impact on vaccines is currently being investigated.

Other mutated viruses

In addition, in Japan, the mutation of "N501Y", which changed to make it easier for people who entered the country from the Philippines on February 25, and the "E484K" that escapes immune attacks It has been reported that another mutant virus with a mutation of " has been detected.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, this virus has also been reported in the Philippines and may be more contagious than its predecessor, making it as much of a threat as other mutated viruses of international concern. It is assumed that there is

In addition, nearly 400 cases of another type of mutant virus with the "E484K" mutation that escapes immune attack have been found by March 3rd.

This mutant virus does not have the "N501Y" mutation that made it easier to infect, and although it is believed that the infectivity is the same as the conventional one, some of them are thought to have mutated domestically. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases plans to grasp the actual situation through analysis of genetic information as a ``notable mutant strain''.

Expert ``Take measures more quickly than the fiscal year''

About the situation of mutated viruses in Japan, Professor Koji Wada of the International University of Health and Welfare, who specializes in public health, said, ``How far has it spread in Japan? There are still many things that we don't know yet, but looking at the situation in each country, it will be difficult to contain it, and we should think that it will replace the main infection in Japan. With the number of infected people declining, I think it is difficult for the general public to feel a sense of crisis, but if an epidemic of a mutated virus occurs, the speed of the spread of infection and the number of infected people will become even more severe. It's likely to happen," he said.

As for the measures that should be taken after that, Professor Wada said, ``The measures taken by individuals will not change at all, but at the time of the change of the fiscal year, the person in charge of infection control changes in many organizations due to personnel changes, and the measures that have been taken so far have changed. There may be cases where the transfer is not successful, and we have seen such cases during the same period in 2020, especially in facilities for the elderly, medical institutions, and local governments. It is also necessary to strengthen the surveillance system, and the government should create firm rules so that mutated viruses can be detected from virus samples tested by private testing companies."

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona 2 people die from mutated virus First in Japan Kanagawa Prefecture (3/16)

March 16, 2021

Kanagawa Prefecture announced on March 16 that it was found that two men living in the prefecture who died after being infected with the new coronavirus were infected with a mutated virus. According to the prefecture, it is the first time in the country that a person died after being infected with a mutated virus.

According to Kanagawa Prefecture, two men in their 50s and 70s living in the prefecture were confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus after they died.

Among them, a man in his 50s was confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus after he died, and a subsequent test confirmed that he was infected with a mutated virus.

In addition, a man in his 70s was confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus after falling ill, died while hospitalized at a medical institution, and was later confirmed to have been infected with a mutated virus. .

In all cases, the cause of death was pneumonia, and according to Kanagawa Prefecture, it was the first time in Japan that a person died from being infected with a mutated virus.

The prefecture has asked the National Institute of Infectious Diseases to investigate in more detail, as it is unknown in which country the mutated virus spread and the route of infection.

The two people who died have already been announced in the prefecture as infected with the new coronavirus or as dead.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus reported in the Philippines First detected in Japan (3/12)

March 12, 2021

In February, it was found that a mutated virus reported in the Philippines was detected for the first time in the country from a man who was confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus at an airport quarantine.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the mutant virus was confirmed in a man in his 60s who arrived at Narita Airport from the Philippines on February 25.

Infection with the new coronavirus was confirmed at the airport quarantine, and after that, as a result of analyzing the specimen at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the mutant virus found in the Philippines was detected.

This is the first time it has been confirmed in Japan.

The man is asymptomatic.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, this mutated virus may be more contagious than its predecessor and is considered to pose the same threat as the mutated virus spreading in the UK, South Africa and Brazil. That's it.

In the Philippines, 34 cases have been reported by March 3, and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases may have spread to a certain extent locally, and urgently strengthens border measures depending on the situation. I think it should be considered.

On the other hand, basic infection prevention measures for individuals are still recommended, such as avoiding the 3 Cs, wearing masks, and washing hands.

Back to Table of Contents

To prevent the influx of mutated viruses “Up to 2,000 people per day” Minister of Foreign Affairs (3/12)

March 12, 2021

At a press conference after the cabinet meeting, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Akabane announced that he would limit the number of people entering the country to 2,000 per day for the time being in order to prevent the influx of the mutated new coronavirus. I again requested to limit the number of passengers.

At a press conference, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Akabane said, ``For the time being, from the perspective of ensuring the implementation of quarantine, the total number of immigrants, including Japanese and re-entering Japan, will be limited to about 2,000 per day.'' In order to prevent the influx of the new coronavirus at the water's edge, the government's policy of limiting the number of immigrants per day has been revealed.

In addition, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Akabane said, ``It is required to control the number of passengers on flights arriving in Japan and manage the number of immigrants. ', and again requested airlines to limit the number of passengers.

In response to a request from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, ANA and Japan Airlines will limit the number of passengers on international flights to 3,400 or less per week for the time being, and have already stopped accepting new reservations. are taking action.

Back to Table of Contents

Kobe City 39% of Mutant Viruses Increase in New Infections (3/11)

March 11, 2021

In order to investigate the infection status of the mutated virus of the new coronavirus, a test conducted independently by Kobe City was confirmed to be infected in the city during the week until March 4, and the specimen was examined. Of these, approximately 39% were found to have a mutated virus that spread in the UK. The percentage of mutated viruses is gradually increasing, and Kobe City is calling for thorough infection prevention measures.

According to tests conducted by the city of Kobe at the city's environmental health research institute, in the week ending March 4, 26 out of 67 samples, which accounted for about 69% of the new infections in the city, 38.8% were mutated viruses that spread in the UK.

Confirmation of the mutated virus that spread in the UK was 15.2% in 12 of the 79 samples in the week to February 18th, and 32 in the week to February 25th. Seven of the samples have a rate of 21.9%, and the rate is gradually increasing.

In addition, for the two weeks until March 4, a mutated virus of unknown origin was found in five samples.

The mayor of Kobe City Hisamoto said at a press conference, ``There is no doubt that the mutated strain is spreading, but since many of them are close contacts, it cannot be said that it exists widely in the city. The number of new infections is increasing, so I want you to be vigilant and take thorough infection prevention measures."

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus detected in sewage before announcement of infection confirmation Hokkaido University (3/11)

March 11, 2021

A research team such as Hokkaido University announced that the genetic information of a mutant virus of the new coronavirus was detected from sewage collected in Japan in early December 2020.

It is possible that there were already people infected with the mutated virus in Japan at this time, and we would like to investigate in detail.

Since April 2020, a research team including Assistant Professor Masaaki Kitajima at the Graduate School of Engineering, Hokkaido University, has collected sewage from various parts of Japan to investigate the spread of new coronavirus infection.

Of these, when the sewage collected on December 4, 2020 was analyzed, the genetic information of a virus with the same mutation ``N501Y'' as the mutated viruses confirmed in the United Kingdom and South Africa was detected. is.

The research team has not disclosed the name of the city from which this sewage was collected.

The first confirmation of infection with the mutated virus in Japan was announced on December 25, 2020, but the research team said that there may have been people infected with the mutated virus in the country before this. increase.

On the other hand, the research team said that it is not yet known whether the detected mutant virus was from overseas, and that it was not detected in the sewage collected in the same city in November 2020.

Assistant Professor Kitajima of the research team said, "We would like to analyze the genetic information and further investigate the spread of infection in Japan."

Back to Table of Contents

World Widespread Infection of Three Mutant Viruses: WHO Report Released (3/11)

March 11, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has released a report stating that three mutated viruses confirmed in the UK, South Africa, and Brazil are spreading worldwide.

The report points out that in order to curb the spread of new coronavirus infections, including mutated viruses, social infection control measures continue to be extremely important as well as individual efforts.

As of March 9, 111 countries and territories had reported the first confirmed variant virus in the UK, an increase of 5 from the previous week, according to the report. about it.

The number of countries and territories that reported another mutated virus, first confirmed in South Africa, increased by 3 compared to the previous week58, and another mutated virus confirmed in Brazil also increased by three,32. It is

In addition, the number of people infected with the new coronavirus worldwide in the week ending March 7 was 2,734,381, an increase of 2% compared to the previous week. week.

By country, India, which has the second highest cumulative number of infected people in the world, has increased by 9%, Brazil, which has the third largest number, has increased by 11%, and Italy has increased by 24%.

Among them, Brazil has the highest number of new infections per week and a high mortality rate, but the report does not indicate whether this is due to a mutated virus or the so-called medical collapse. Or it is difficult to judge whether it is due to both.

On the other hand, the number of people who died in the past week was 60,323 worldwide, down 6% from the previous week and falling below the previous week for the fifth consecutive week.

The report points out that in order to curb the spread of the new coronavirus, including mutated viruses, it is still extremely important for individual efforts and social infection control measures to be taken.

Back to Table of Contents

UK Mutant Virus May Increase Mortality Risk by 64% Research Group (3/11)

March 11, 2021

Research groups such as British universities have announced research results that the risk of death is higher than that of conventional viruses for the mutated new coronavirus that was first found in the UK and spread around the world.

On March 10, a research group from the University of Exeter, UK, published a report in the British medical journal "British Medical Journal" on March 10, showing people infected with the mutated new coronavirus that spread rapidly in the UK and those infected with the conventional virus. Published a paper investigating whether there is a difference in the risk of dying between people infected with

From October 2020 to January 2021, the research group identified approximately 55,000 people over the age of 30 who were infected with the mutated new coronavirus, and their age, gender, place of residence, and time of infection. About 55,000 people infected with a similar conventional virus compared the number of deaths within 28 days from the date of testing.

As a result, 227 people died in the group infected with the mutated virus, compared to 141 people who died in the conventional virus, and the research group found that the mutated virus reduced the risk of dying by 64%. I think it could be increased.

The research group says, ``Although the risk of death itself is still low, the number of deaths may increase,'' and it is necessary to be vigilant about the spread of the mutated virus.

Back to Table of Contents

Chairman Omi, Government Subcommittee "Mutant Strains Become Mainstream; Strengthen Monitoring System" (3/10)

March 10, 2021

over the response to the new Coronavirus, Chairman Shigeru Omi, Chairman of the Government Society, has shown that the mutant virus will become mainstream in Japan in the future, and strengthen the surveillance system. I emphasized the need to do.

In this, Omi, chairman of the government subcommittee, pointed out that ``the process of replacing existing strains has definitely begun, and it is better to think that mutated strains will become mainstream sooner or later.'' Did.

On top of that, ``In Japan, there is no direct evidence that the infectivity of mutant strains has become as high as it is said in Europe, but assuming that it will be, universities and private testing institutions will be used. It is an urgent task to mobilize all of them and strengthen the monitoring of mutant strains by all Japan."

On the other hand, regarding the declaration of a state of emergency that has been declared in the three prefectures of the Tokyo metropolitan area, ``We should not lift or extend it in a way that cannot be explained objectively or socially. , We will make decisions while considering the burden on medical care will become more important."

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus test: only 10% of infections announced in Tokyo and 3 prefectures...Why? (3/8)

March 8, 2021

How far is the mutated new coronavirus spreading overseas such as the UK being tested in Japan? It turned out that more than 400 people were tested for the mutated virus in one week until the end of February in one of the three prefectures in the Tokyo metropolitan area, where the declaration of a state of emergency was extended.

This is about 10% of the number of new infections announced during this period. Experts point out that it is necessary to further strengthen the monitoring system such as inspections. Why is this happening?

Detected in a total of 194 people in 20 prefectures nationwide (excluding airport quarantine)

The mutated virus that is raging overseas is believed to be more infectious than before, and the future domestic infection situation It is also said to greatly affect the

In Japan, by March 5, mutated viruses have been detected in a total of 194 people in 20 prefectures nationwide, excluding airport quarantines.

How does inspection work?

In the first place, what kind of system is used to inspect mutant viruses?

First, the local government will extract some of the people who are positive for the new corona and, in principle, analyze them by PCR test at the local public health institute.

If the local government's tests suspected of a mutant virus, we sent a sample to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases and performed genome analysis to determine the results.

1 metropolitan and 3 prefectures test about 10% of new infected people announced Since we are extracting, we may not have found all infected people.

This time, NHK investigated how many mutant viruses were tested for one and three prefectures in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba, where the emergency declaration was extended.

As a result, it was found that 418 people were tested for the mutated virus in the entire week until February 28th in Tokyo and 3 prefectures.

This is about 10% of the number of new infections announced during this period.

However, in reality, testing for mutated viruses may be conducted some time after infection is confirmed, so the number does not indicate the testing rate during this period.

By prefecture, ▽ Tokyo tested 149 people, and no one was confirmed to have a mutated virus. ▽ Kanagawa has tested 43 people, and the final results are not yet available. ▽ Saitama tested 44 people, and no one was confirmed to have a mutated virus. ▽ Chiba tested 182 people, one of whom was found to be infected with a mutated virus.

検査 一部にとどまる “体制整備の途中” “検体保存されず”…

国は自治体に対して新規感染者の5％から10％を目安に検体を抽出しI am asking you to look into it.

Regarding testing for mutated viruses, local governments have said that in addition to the fact that the system is still in the process of being established, there are cases in which specimens have not been stored or collected in the first place, and confirmation tests are possible. There are also issues such as the fact that some specimens do not have enough viral genes.

On the other hand, in all areas, we want to strengthen the mutant virus inspection system in the future.

In addition, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the results will be confirmed sequentially from the inspection of the local government alone.

Some of the local governments where the mutated virus has been confirmed have increased the percentage of specimens extracted and expanded the inspection.

What is the spread of infection in Japan?

The mutated new coronavirus spreading overseas such as the UK was first discovered in Japan in December 2020, and the infection has gradually spread since then. A total of 20 prefectures have been confirmed as of March 5th.

The first mutated virus was confirmed in Japan on December 25, 2020. It was detected in 5 people who left the UK and arrived at Haneda Airport and Kansai Airport.

The next day, a mutated virus was confirmed for the first time outside of airport quarantine in Tokyo. In January, when the new year began, Hyogo Prefecture on ▽ 6th, Shizuoka Prefecture on ▽ 18th, and Saitama Prefecture on ▽ 28th, a mutated virus was confirmed for the first time outside of airport quarantine.

At this time, some people who had no history of staying abroad appeared to have been infected in the community.

The region expanded further in February, with Kanagawa on the 4th, Fukushima, Tochigi, Gunma, Ibaraki, Niigata, and Nagano on the 9th, and on the 12th. Detection of a mutated virus was reported for the first time in Yamanashi and Shiga prefectures, Kyoto and Kagoshima prefectures on the 16th, Okayama prefecture on the 18th, and Osaka prefecture on the 22nd.

There were also areas where clusters of mutated viruses were thought to have occurred at workplaces and nursery schools.

Even in March, a mutated virus was confirmed for the first time in Chiba and Gifu prefectures on the 3rd and in Ishikawa prefecture on the 5th.

A total of 251 confirmed infections in Japan

By prefecture, ▽40 in Saitama, 37 in Hyogo, 31 in Niigata, 15 in Kanagawa, and Tokyo. 14 in Osaka, 9 in Kyoto, 7 in Shizuoka, 5 in Fukushima, 5 in Kagoshima, 4 in Gifu, 3 in Gunma, and 3 in Okayama. ▽ 2 people in Yamanashi Prefecture ▽ 2 people in Shiga Prefecture ▽ 1 person in Ibaraki Prefecture ▽ 1 person in Chiba Prefecture ▽ 1 person in Tochigi Prefecture ▽ 1 person in Nagano Prefecture ▽ 1 person in Ishikawa Prefecture. .

By month, there were 3 people in December 2020, 21 people in January 2021, and 134 people in February, a significant increase. ▽ By the 5th of March, there are already 36 people.

In addition to this, there are 57 airport quarantines, and a total of 251 confirmed infections nationwide.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare said, ``Multiple clusters have been reported and cases with no connection to overseas have been confirmed, but it is not a widespread epidemic in the region.'' is.

Expert ``The number of tests is a little small, the system needs to be strengthened''

Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University (familiar with overseas infectious diseases) I feel that the number of tests is about 10%, which is a little small for grasping the infection status of the mutated virus.In order to grasp the spread of the virus early and take advantage of countermeasures, it is necessary to further strengthen the monitoring system such as testing. There may be," he points out.

On top of that, there are cases where it is not possible to test for mutated viruses because the specimens are not stored at the testing institution. I'm doing it.

In addition, regarding the future outlook, "Looking at the situation in the world, the mutated virus is spreading mainly in Europe and the United States, and there is a high possibility that Japan will eventually become the same. The situation of the third wave is finally calming down, but the infection If a virus with a high score spreads, medical institutions may be overwhelmed again and the situation may fall into a serious situation, so it is necessary to delay the epidemic of the mutated virus as much as possible."

On top of that, I would like the general public to be aware that they are still exposed to the threat of this virus even if the state of emergency is lifted, and to continue to take measures such as refraining from eating out for a while.

Back to Table of Contents

WHO New Coronavirus Mutant Virus "Spreads to Over 100 Countries and Regions" (2/24)

February 24, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization says the number of new confirmed cases of the new coronavirus continues to decline globally, while the mutated virus has spread to more than 100 countries and territories. The report was published on February 23rd.

According to the report, the number of infected people reported worldwide in the week from February 15 to 21 was 2,457,026, down 11% from the previous week, marking the sixth consecutive week. lower than the previous week.

The highest number of new infections in a week was ▽ the United States with 480,467, a decrease of 29% compared to the previous week, ▽ followed by Brazil with 316,221 1 % decreased. The number of new infections in the week was down from the previous week in Europe as a whole, but in France it was 131,179, an increase of 3% from the previous week.

Also, worldwide, the number of people who died in the past week was 66,359, a decrease of 20% compared to the previous week, falling below the previous week for the third consecutive week.

On the other hand, the number of countries and regions where the mutated virus was reported was ▽ the first confirmed mutated virus in the UK increased by 7 compared to the previous week to 101 ▽ another first confirmed in South Africa In the mutated virus of , 51 increased by 5 compared to the previous week, and another mutated virus confirmed in Brazil and Japan increased by 8 compared to the previous week to 29.

The WHO calls for continued vigilance, saying that while the number of new infections continues to decline due to infection control measures, the spread of mutated viruses continues.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus 5 people confirmed infected nationwide No history of staying abroad First in Osaka prefecture (2/22)

February 22, 2021

It was newly found that five men and women nationwide who had no history of staying abroad were infected with the mutated new coronavirus that is spreading in the UK. In Osaka Prefecture, the infection has been confirmed for the first time.

According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, two men in their teens and one woman in their 40s from Osaka Prefecture were newly confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus, and ▽ the age of Kyoto Prefecture has been announced. There are two men and women.

It is the first time that a mutated virus infection has been confirmed in Osaka Prefecture other than quarantine inspections, and three people are close contacts.

None of the five had a history of staying abroad, and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is investigating the route of infection.

With this, a total of 178 people have been confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus in Japan, including airport quarantines.

Back to Table of Contents

“Three types of mutated viruses spread worldwide” WHO report (2/11)

February 11, 2021

WHO = The World Health Organization has confirmed that the infection of three types of mutated viruses, including the mutated new coronavirus confirmed in the United Kingdom, has spread worldwide, and mutations that escape the antibodies that attack the virus are commonly confirmed. As it is, we have published a report that it is important to thoroughly implement infection control measures.

According to the report, the mutated virus, which was first reported in the UK, was confirmed in 83 countries and territories as of February 9, eight more than last week.

Also, another mutated virus that was first reported in South Africa was reported in 37 countries and regions, which is 3 more countries than last week, and another mutated virus was reported in Brazil and Japan in 4 countries compared to last week. It means that it was confirmed in each of the 14 countries and regions where there are many.

In addition, he points out that a mutation called "escape mutation" that escapes from the antibody that attacks the virus has been confirmed in the British mutant virus, following the South African mutant virus and the Brazilian mutant virus. increase.

Since this mutation may affect the effectiveness of the vaccine, the report states that it is important to investigate the impact on the vaccine and take thorough infection control measures.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus “Need to continue monitoring even if no spread is seen in the city” (2/10)

February 10, 2021

A mutated new coronavirus that is said to be highly infectious. New infections that appear to be clusters have been confirmed.

On February 9th, it was found that a total of 13 people across the country were infected with the mutated new coronavirus that is spreading in the UK and South Africa.

Of these, 11 people in their 20s to 50s living in 9 prefectures are related to the workplace who used the same facility and have no history of staying abroad.

In addition, in Kanagawa Prefecture, a mutated virus spreading in South Africa was detected in men and women in their 40s and 50s who had no history of staying abroad.

As of February 10, 108 cases of the mutated virus have been found, including 43 cases in airport quarantine and 65 cases outside quarantine, and there are concerns that the infection will spread in Japan.

What are Mutant Viruses?

Many viruses undergo very small mutations in their genetic information as they are repeatedly infected. Previous studies have shown that the new coronavirus undergoes a small mutation at a pace of about one every two weeks.

However, in most cases these mutations do not affect the nature of the virus.

However, ▼ the mutant virus confirmed in England, the mutant virus that spread in ▼ South Africa, and the mutant virus found in ▼ Brazil are all thought to have changed the nature of the virus due to mutation.

What these three have in common is that a mutation called “N501Y” occurs in the genetic information of the “spike protein” that serves as a scaffold when the new coronavirus infects human cells, and the amino acid changes. is to be

Reports from the UK suggest that this change could increase susceptibility to infection by up to 70%.

Also, another mutation has been attracting attention recently.

A mutation called "E484K" has been confirmed in the mutant virus found in ▼ South Africa and the mutant virus found in ▼ Brazil.

It is believed that this "E484K" mutation makes it easier for the virus to evade attack by antibodies, and there are reports that experiments using cells have weakened the effect of antibodies.

For these reasons, there are concerns that ▼ the effectiveness of currently used vaccines may be affected, and ▼ people who have been infected once may be infected again.

Human immunity is not determined by antibodies alone, and the effects of vaccines are expected not only to suppress the onset of symptoms, but also to prevent aggravation. is in progress.

Flow of Mutant Virus Detection

Mutant viruses were detected at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases by decoding all the virus genes. We have developed a method to specifically and quickly detect mutated viruses by testing, and now this method is being used at local public health laboratories in various places.

At local public health institutes, PCR tests are being conducted to quickly detect mutated viruses by extracting a certain percentage of the samples that have been confirmed to be positive for the new coronavirus in regular tests. , If it turns out that there is a possibility of a mutated virus, the flow is to send the specimen to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases for confirmation.

Under these circumstances, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government examined the samples of 1710 people who were confirmed to be infected with the new coronavirus by PCR tests etc. by January 29, and as a result, mutated viruses were detected in 2 people. Among the specimens, it seems that it remains in a part and has not become the mainstream of infection.

Expert: "While there is no spread in the city, we need to continue monitoring"

Director Takaji Wakita of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases at a press conference on the evening of February 9, Mutant strains have now been detected in various places, but in most cases, the route of infection has been traced.In a situation where there is no connection with the person infected with the mutant strain, it is not possible to be infected with the mutant strain in the city. I think," he said, stating that there is no spread in the city at this time, but there is a risk that the infection will spread, and it is necessary to continue monitoring.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant virus in UK confirmed in 69 countries/regions WHO announcement (1/28)

January 28, 2021

The novel coronavirus variant, first identified in the UK, has been identified in 69 countries and territories around the world so far, as well as two other variants in South Africa and Brazil in South America. WHO = World Health Organization has released a report that the virus is also being confirmed one after another.

According to the report, as of the 25th of this month, the mutated virus that was first confirmed in the UK has been confirmed in a total of 69 countries and regions around the world, including Japan, Asia, Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. about it.

In addition, another mutated virus confirmed in South Africa has been confirmed in 25 countries and regions, including Japan, China, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, and is currently being confirmed in 6 countries and regions. That's it.

In addition, mutated viruses different from these two confirmed in Japan and Brazil have been confirmed in eight countries and regions such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy.

Research on the effects of vaccines is underway in various countries, and WHO recommends washing hands, avoiding crowds, wearing masks, and thoroughly implementing infection control measures in countries and regions. points out that.

Back to Table of Contents

What's the latest on the mutated virus? Interview with WHO staff (1/22)

January 22, 2021

A new coronavirus mutation virus that was first confirmed in the UK and has been confirmed in 58 countries and regions, including Japan, as of January 17. How is it different from conventional viruses? Will the vaccine work? We interviewed Dr. Richard Pebody, who is responding to the mutated virus at the European Regional Secretariat of the WHO = World Health Organization. (European General Bureau Reporter Akiko Koyama)

Dr. Richard Pebody, who is working on the mutated virus response at the WHO European Regional Office in Denmark in Northern Europe, worked for the Public Health England and has been working at the WHO European Regional Office since 2019. threat pathogen), and serves as team leader for the response to high-risk pathogens.

What we know now

(Reporter) What does WHO know and what does it not know about the mutant virus? What is the latest information as of January 15th?

(Dr. Pebody) There are multiple mutation viruses confirmed in the world now. Here, we will talk about the mutated virus that was first detected in the UK as a mutated virus in the world and is now confirmed all over the world.

The UK was the first country in the world to detect this virus last December. So we are still learning every day what the concerns are.

What we do know is that evidence is accumulating that this mutant virus spreads faster than the conventional virus.

In the UK, infections began to appear in the last few weeks of December, and in January, more people were infected with the mutated virus.

The severity of symptoms, that is, the likelihood of hospitalization or death, is no different from conventional viruses. It's neither likely nor unlikely.

In the UK, the number of infected people is increasing, so more people are hospitalized and more people die.

(Dr Pebody) The mutated virus detected in South Africa is different from the UK.

However, even in the UK, the mutated virus detected in South Africa has been confirmed. They were identified, among other things, by people associated with people traveling from South Africa.

Speaking of Japan, a virus has been found that may have come from South America.

These viruses have already been identified in multiple parts of the world and spread very easily and quickly. All countries must continue to have systems in place to detect the virus early so that they can take swift action to limit the spread of the virus.

The countries that have detected and reported the mutated virus so far have sophisticated surveillance systems and are able to detect the virus. They are reporting and doing the right thing.

It's quite possible, and I think so, that other mutant viruses are already spreading and we just haven't noticed.

Preventive measures

(Reporter) What kind of measures are necessary to avoid being infected with a mutated virus? .

(Dr. Pebody) Just like conventional virus countermeasures, the countermeasures are becoming more important than ever.

Keeping distance from others, wearing masks, washing hands, all these measures prevent the spread of infection, whether it is a mutated virus or a classic virus. leads to

The fact that the infection is spreading more easily means that these measures must be even more thorough. It's very important.

Each country needs to take measures according to the infection situation, and countries with serious infections need stronger measures.

(reporter) Before you worry more than necessary, you should do what you can, such as washing your hands.

(Dr. Pebody) We should continue to take measures that WHO and other countries have said they should do. Wash your hands thoroughly, wear a mask when in contact with others, and keep your distance. All of this is important in reducing the chances of the virus spreading.

If you feel sick, stay home. Anyone suspected of being infected should be tested. If infection is confirmed, isolation, whether it is a mutated virus or a conventional virus, all of these are important.

What is the impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine?

(Reporter) Is the vaccine effective against mutated viruses? .

(Dr. Pebody) I haven't seen any data on that yet. We are waiting for data. Research is currently underway to see if the vaccine is effective against mutated viruses, and if so, whether it will have a more limited effect.

It's still in the middle of research, but my feeling is that at least at this stage, theoretically, there's no evidence that vaccines won't work against mutant viruses. I have to see the research results, but for conventional viruses, the results of clinical trials show that vaccines are effective, so I expect that they will have a protective effect against any other mutated viruses. I'm here.

Still, I have to look at the research results and see if it really works, so let's wait a little longer.

(reporter) At this stage, each country does not need to change the vaccination plan.

(Dr. Pebody) Of course. There is no need to change the current vaccination plan because the mutation virus has been detected.

Easiness of infection by age

(Reporter) Is there information that young people are more likely to be infected with mutated viruses? .

(Dr. Pebody) That's an important question. Evidence from the UK, at least, so far suggests that all age groups are susceptible to infection. Both young people and adults. All people are susceptible to infection, regardless of age.

So, instead of changing the content of the measures we have taken so far, we need to strengthen the measures we have taken so far.

There is also a measure to close the school. If the current level of measures is not enough to suppress the infection, there is also a way to take measures to close the school. Importantly, however, there is no evidence that children are more susceptible to infection. Children and adults are the same.

For countries that will start vaccination

(Reporter) Do you have any advice for countries like Japan where vaccination has not started yet?

(Dr. Pebody) Regardless of the mutated virus, vaccination is very important. Vaccination is an important additional element to protect those at risk of becoming seriously ill. That's why vaccination is starting in each country.

Currently, countries are starting to vaccinate people who are likely to become seriously ill if infected, people who are at high risk of dying, especially the elderly and people in facilities for the elderly. And it's starting for medical workers too. To protect them and have a health system. I believe that each country needs to determine who should be prioritized and proceed with vaccination.

Back to Table of Contents

Dr. Fauci, USA “Vaccines for Mutant Viruses: Efficacy to a certain extent” (1/22)

January 22, 2021

Dr. Fauci, who is involved in the US government's new coronavirus countermeasures, said at a press conference held on January 21 that the effectiveness of vaccines against mutated viruses found in the UK and other countries is maintained to a certain extent. After showing the view that it is, he appealed that it is important to speed up vaccination.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, who is involved in the new coronavirus countermeasures as the chief medical adviser to the Biden administration in the United States, held his first press conference on January 21 after being inaugurated as President Biden.

Dr. Fauci first said, ``It seems that the pace of increase seems to be slowing, but it is necessary to watch carefully,'' regarding the situation of infections in the United States, indicating that the serious situation continues.

And about the impact of the mutated viruses found in the UK and South Africa on the efficacy of vaccines, he said, ``From the results of early studies, there may be changes in efficacy, but it won't go away. No," he said, indicating that a certain degree of effectiveness is maintained.

In addition, Dr. Fauci said, ``In order to maintain the effectiveness of the vaccine, it is important to vaccinate as many people as possible to suppress the spread of infection and prevent the virus from mutating.'' I appealed to speed up the pace of

Back to Table of Contents

New Coronavirus Mutant Virus WHO Person in Charge ``Fast Infection Speed'' (1/19)

January 19, 2021

Regarding the mutated new coronavirus that spreads in the UK, WHO = World Health Organization experts point out that the speed of infection is faster than the conventional virus, but the risk of severe illness and death is conventional. It shows the view that there is no big difference.

Dr. Richard Pebody, who is in charge of dealing with mutated viruses at the WHO's European Regional Office, said in an NHK interview about the mutated new coronavirus that spreads in the UK, ``Evidence that the infection spreads at a faster speed than conventional viruses. In the UK, infections began to be seen in the last few weeks of December, and this month more people were infected with the mutated virus."

On the other hand, he said, ``There is no difference from the conventional virus in terms of the possibility of hospitalization or death.''

Furthermore, regarding whether vaccines developed in each country are effective against mutated viruses, ``There are several studies underway to see if they have a more limited effect on mutated viruses, but at least at this stage, it is theoretically possible. There is no evidence that it does not work against mutated viruses," he said, calling for thorough measures such as washing hands, wearing masks, and avoiding the 3 Cs.

According to the WHO, the mutated virus spreading in the UK has been confirmed in 58 countries and regions as of the 17th.

U.S. requesting information disclosure from China regarding investigation of outbreak source

At the WHO = World Health Organization executive board meeting that began on January 18, an international investigation team of WHO is proceeding. There was an act in which the Chinese side objected to the United States' request for information disclosure from China regarding the investigation of the origin of the new coronavirus.

Among them, the representative of the United States said regarding the investigation that the investigation team is proceeding in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, "The investigation will receive all information from the Chinese side, such as the genetic sequence of the new virus and the samples taken so far in Wuhan. We will succeed only if it is provided," he said, asking the Chinese side to disclose all information.

In response, the representative of China said, "China has always released information in a timely manner and responded with transparency and a sense of responsibility. Investigating the source of the virus requires coordination and cooperation. We should stop applying political pressure," he argued, claiming that the information had been disclosed.

Regarding the WHO investigation, US Secretary of State Pompeo said on January 15, referring to the "Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences" in Wuhan, "In order for the WHO report to be credible, a virus sample It is important to have unrestricted access to whistleblowers and whistleblowers," he said, calling for a thorough investigation.

The number of confirmed infections in the UK is declining, but the number of hospitalized patients is the highest “One person is hospitalized every 30 seconds”

In the UK, where the mutated new coronavirus is spreading, new cases are confirmed on the 1st. Although the number of infected people is on the decline, the number of hospitalized patients is the highest ever, and the medical system continues to be in a serious situation.

In the UK, the spread of a mutated new coronavirus, which is said to be highly contagious, has severely restricted going out, and in principle, retail stores other than restaurants and stores that handle daily necessities are prohibited from operating. increase.

The infection has spread rapidly since December 2020, and on January 1st, there were days when the number of newly confirmed infected people exceeded 60,000, but in the past few days it has fallen below 50,000.

However, the number of hospitalized patients is increasing, and the latest announcement is 37,475, the highest number ever, and the government says that one person is hospitalized every 30 seconds.

On January 18, Prime Minister Johnson told media outlets, "We're not out of the woods yet. The medical system is overwhelmed, and the number of infected people is still increasing." I strongly called for the thorough implementation of countermeasures.

On the other hand, Health Minister Hancock said at a press conference that more than 4 million people have received the first dose of the vaccine so far.

In the UK, the goal is to vaccinate 15 million people, such as the elderly over the age of 70 and medical workers, by February 15, and they are in a hurry to get vaccinated. increase.

Even in the United States, ``the mutated virus may become the mainstream of infection by March''

The mutated virus that spreads in the United Kingdom has not been confirmed to spread rapidly in the United States at this stage. No, but the US CDC = Center for Disease Control speculates that the infection may become mainstream by March.

In the United States, a total of 88 cases of mutated virus infection have been reported in 14 states so far, and infections in people who have never traveled have been confirmed.

In a report released on January 15, the CDC estimated that mutated virus infections are currently less than 0.5% of new coronavirus infections nationwide.

However, since the mutated virus spreads faster than previous viruses, the CDC speculates that it may become mainstream in the United States by March.

In order to suppress the spread of infection, the CDC says that it is necessary to take thorough infection control measures such as wearing masks and avoiding contact with others, and to promptly promote vaccination.

Back to Table of Contents

Mutant Virus Shizuoka "Emergency Alert" Domestic and International Infections?

In response to the confirmation of the infection of three men and women in Shizuoka Prefecture who have not traveled abroad and have not been in contact with an infected person, Shizuoka Prefectural Governor Kawakatsu held a temporary press conference and issued a prefecture-specific ``emergency warning for the spread of infection'', strongly calling for thorough countermeasures. We have summarized the spread of infection of mutated viruses in Japan and abroad, and the current situation of countermeasures.

In Shizuoka Prefecture, on January 18, it was confirmed that a woman in her 20s, a woman in her 40s who had close contact with her, and a man in her 60s were infected with the mutated virus.

This is the first case in Japan of a mutated virus with no history of overseas travel and no known route of infection.

On the afternoon of January 19th, Governor Kawakatsu held a temporary press conference and issued the prefecture's own "Emergency Warning for the Spread of Infection", asking citizens to take further infection prevention measures.

Then, after showing a strong sense of crisis, ``It is reported that the cases in the UK are highly contagious, and if the number of infections in Japan explodes, the medical care system may collapse and the lives that can be saved may not be saved.'' "It is necessary to have each and every citizen of the prefecture take thorough measures to prevent infection and further strengthen the medical care system," he said.

On top of that, as specific measures, ▽ Thoroughly implement basic infection prevention measures such as avoiding the 3 Cs, ▽ Refrain from traveling across prefectural borders and avoid unnecessary and non-urgent outings even within the prefecture, and ▽ Be sure to wear a mask. and asked not to have dinner with people other than family members.

On the other hand, he explained that even if it is a mutated virus, the basic measures will not change, and there is no need to request restaurants to shorten working hours or to restrict special behavior.

One more person infected with a mutated virus

In addition, according to Shizuoka Prefecture, regarding a close contact of a man in his 60s who was confirmed to be infected with a mutated new coronavirus, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases A PCR test was conducted to see if he was infected with the mutated virus, and it was determined to be positive on January 19.

In the future, the sample of this close contact will be tested to analyze the gene to confirm the result, but the prefecture says that the accuracy of the PCR test is high and there is a high possibility that the infection with the mutated virus will be confirmed. is.

It means that this close contact has not been in close contact with anyone other than a man who has already been confirmed to be infected.

In addition, the prefecture has provided the National Institute of Infectious Diseases with 32 samples from areas where 3 people have been confirmed to be infected, and PCR tests are being conducted, but 31 samples excluding this close contact have a mutant virus. was not infected.

47 people confirmed to be infected in Japan

The mutated virus that is spreading in the UK and other countries has a protruding part called a "spike" on the surface that has changed into a shape that makes it easier to infect, making it more infectious. considered to be high.

As of January 19, 47 people have been confirmed to be infected with these mutant viruses in Japan.

By virus type, ▽ 38 people were infected with the variant virus of the type originally reported in the UK, and ▽ 5 were infected with the variant virus of the type reported in South Africa. Four people with a history of staying in Brazil have been confirmed to be infected with mutated viruses different from these.

In addition, of the 47 people, 36 people, about three-fourths, were confirmed to be infected by airport quarantine when they arrived in Japan from overseas such as the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil.

▽ 8 people are people who have stayed abroad or their close contacts.

▽The first confirmed infection with the mutated virus among those who had no history of staying abroad and no contact with an infected person was announced on January 18, 3 men and women in Shizuoka Prefecture. is.

Regarding this, Takaji Wakita, director of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, said at a press conference on January 18 that he was investigating samples from positive people in the area where the mutated virus was discovered, and said, "In this area. I don't think it's a situation where the mainstream virus is being replaced by a mutated virus."

Confirmed in 58 countries and regions

The new coronavirus mutates repeatedly at a frequency of about once every two weeks, and normally even if part of the gene mutates, the characteristics of the virus There are three main types of mutated viruses that do not undergo major changes in their characteristics, but have undergone mutations in the parts related to their infectivity.

All of them have a mutation called "N501Y", one of which is the same type of virus that was confirmed in Shizuoka Prefecture this time.

This virus appeared in the UK in September 2020 and is said to be highly infectious, and according to the WHO = World Health Organization, it has been confirmed in 58 countries and regions as of January 17. is.

In addition, another type of virus with the same mutation was confirmed in South Africa, and a similar virus was confirmed in a person who arrived from Brazil during the airport quarantine in Japan.

Increasing registrations in the database

In the database "Nextstrain" that registers viruses analyzed by research institutions around the world, about 3900 of the viruses registered from December 2019 to this month The genetic information of is collectively published.

Among these, the registration of three types of mutant viruses began to increase around autumn last year, and as of January 15, they accounted for 33% of those listed in the table.

Although this percentage does not indicate the infection status in the community, registrations of mutant viruses are increasing as surveillance systems are strengthened around the world.

The WHO says it is important to expand the ability to analyze the virus and publish the information internationally. Research is underway in countries around the world about its effects on treatment.

Infectivity and aggravation? [1. English type]

Previous research suggests that the mutated new coronavirus spreading in the UK may be more susceptible to infection. I know there is

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, reports from ECDC (European Center for Disease Control and Prevention), etc., have analyzed the data so far, and the mutated virus in the UK shows how many people one person infects. It means that the number called has increased by 0.4 or more, and the susceptibility to infection may have increased by up to 70%.

It means that there is no data that the severity of symptoms when infected is more likely to become severe than before.

However, many of the people infected with the mutated virus in the UK are under the age of 60, who have a low risk of severe disease, so caution is required in the evaluation.

What is the infectivity and severity? [2. South Africa type]

The virus confirmed in South Africa and the mutated virus found in a person who entered Japan from Brazil are the same as the UK and the virus, respectively. is a different virus.

However, all mutant viruses have a common mutation called "N501Y" in the gene of the protein called "spike protein" that works when the virus infects cells.

It is not yet known whether other viruses than those found in the UK are becoming more susceptible to infection.

Effectiveness of vaccines

Although it is not known in detail whether vaccines are effective against mutated viruses, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, even if the virus changes slightly, the vaccine will still be effective. It does not mean that the effect of

Groups such as American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer are conducting experiments on this.

The group artificially created a virus with the same mutation as the mutated virus found in England and South Africa, and investigated whether it reacted with the blood of people vaccinated with Pfizer's vaccine.

As a result, it was confirmed that the antibodies in the blood attack the mutant virus.

Pfizer says the efficacy of vaccines against the mutated virus still needs to be investigated.

Expert ``The third wave may last longer''

Professor Atsuro Hamada of Tokyo Medical University, who is familiar with overseas infectious diseases, said, ``The mutated virus that spreads in the UK and other countries is infectious. Although there are many unknowns due to limited information, if the mutated virus were to spread in the country, the current third wave of infections could last longer. There is," he pointed out.

On top of that, ``The measures at the border are aimed at delaying the invasion of the virus and reducing the number of incoming viruses, and cannot completely prevent the influx of the virus. In addition to investigating the source of infection in people infected with the mutated virus in the community, it is necessary to further strengthen monitoring surveys to check for infection with the mutated virus in Japan. However, considering the high degree of infection, it is necessary to take measures more than ever, and especially in areas subject to the declaration of a state of emergency, I would like people to refrain from going out unnecessarily."

Rapid detection method development

In order to strengthen the surveillance system for the mutated new coronaviruses that have been confirmed in the United Kingdom and South Africa, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases and others are using conventional PCR tests. We are developing a method to rapidly detect mutant viruses by utilizing it.

Until now, in order to find a mutated virus, it was necessary to analyze all the genetic information in detail using a special device, but ▽ it is impossible to investigate if the amount of virus is small, and ▽ the result is inaccurate. The problem was how long it took to get out.

A new method developed by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases can directly detect whether or not a mutation called "N501Y", which is currently a problem, occurs in the virus gene using PCR testing technology. is.

In addition to being able to perform tests that used to take more than half a day in a few hours, it is possible to use normal PCR test equipment.

It is said that this test cannot distinguish in detail whether the mutated virus confirmed in the UK or the one confirmed in South Africa, but the National Institute of Infectious Diseases is able to quickly examine a large number of samples. It is said that if it is put into practical use, it will help strengthen the surveillance system.

Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Tamura “Launch a specialized organization to prevent epidemics”

Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Tamura wants to set up a specialized organization to strengthen health observations and behavior checks to prevent epidemics in Japan. emphasized thoughts.

In principle, the government's border measures completely restrict the entry of foreigners, but re-entry of Japanese returnees and foreigners with status of residence will continue to be allowed, and when entering the country We are asking for a 14-day waiting period at the property.

In the midst of this, Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Tamura told reporters in Tokyo, ``For those who enter the country from areas where the mutated virus is prevalent, we will create a ``follow-up center'' directly managed by the government and 1 day a day. I'm thinking of using LINE, a free communication app, or by phone to check their health," he said. and the idea of ​​strengthening action confirmation.

On top of that, he said, ``Since the public is very worried about the spread of infection in the country, if there is an epidemic of a mutated virus, we would like to expand the target area as needed.'' He emphasized the idea of ​​​​wanting to prevent an epidemic in the country.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato ``strengthening monitoring systems in other regions''

Chief Cabinet Secretary Kato said at a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, regarding the monitoring system for the mutated new coronavirus, ``The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare In cooperation with research institutes and local governments, we are requesting cooperation to submit the most recent specimens from Shizuoka Prefecture, where the mutant strain was reported, and are working to strengthen it by giving priority to analysis.

In addition, he said, "For other areas, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases is considering strengthening the monitoring system based on the capacity of genome analysis capabilities and the results of Shizuoka Prefecture's analysis."

Back to Table of Contents

Corona mutated virus first confirmed in Japan 5 returnees from the UK (2020/12/25)

December 25, 2020

Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Tamura held a press conference after 9:00 pm on December 25th and announced that five people who returned from the UK were infected with a mutated new coronavirus. This is the first time that a person infected with a mutated virus has been confirmed in Japan.

Five returned from the United Kingdom

Five returned from the United Kingdom in mid-to-late December and tested positive for the new coronavirus in airport quarantine, which led to the death of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases. As a result of analyzing the specimen, a mutated new coronavirus was confirmed.

▽ Two people returned to Haneda Airport on December 18th and 20th, and ▽ three people returned to Kansai Airport on December 21st.

The ages were men and women between the ages of 10 and 60, and when they returned to Japan, 4 had no symptoms and a man in his 60s complained of malaise.

Regarding the five, Minister Tamura said, "Since the positive test was confirmed in the airport quarantine, it would be unthinkable that there was contact in a way that infected other people after arriving in Japan." rice field.

What to do with returnees after the 26th

In addition, after the 26th, regarding the response to people returning from the UK and South Africa, "I will ask them to stay in a hotel for three days, and then undergo an examination. If the results are negative, they will be sent back to their homes, etc. without using public transportation.We are preparing to have them stay at home for 14 days after returning to Japan, during which time they will be followed up on their health. We will take all possible measures to eliminate the possibility of the spread of infected people in Japan as much as possible."

In response to the spread of the mutated new coronavirus, which is said to be highly infectious in the UK, the government has refused new entry from the UK from December 24th for the time being. tightened immigration restrictions.

What is a mutated virus? Information from the National Institute of Infectious Diseases

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has released information as of December 22 regarding the mutated virus that is spreading mainly in the United Kingdom. It is published collectively.

According to that, the mutant has nine mutations in the gene called "spike protein", which is a scaffold for the virus to infect cells.

What characterizes the virus is that it may be up to 70% more infectious than previous viruses, according to UK analysis.

Regarding the impact on symptoms, although there is currently no data on severe disease associated with this variant, the majority of people confirmed to be infected with the mutated virus are unlikely to develop severe disease60. It means that you need to be careful with the evaluation because you are under the age. The impact on vaccine efficacy is unknown at this time.

Specially Appointed Professor Nakayama of Kitasato University "It's difficult to stop it at the water's edge"

Specially Appointed Professor Tetsuo Nakayama of Kitasato University, who is familiar with viruses, commented on the confirmation of a mutated new coronavirus in Japan. "As long as there is movement of people, it is not surprising that the virus that is prevalent in the UK will be found in the country. Not everyone will develop symptoms, so it will be difficult to stop it at the water's edge.Even if there is an epidemic in the spring, it will not be noticed. The virus that was prevalent in Europe in 2009 entered Japan, and by the time we realized it, it was too late.There is a possibility that something similar is happening this time.

Also, regarding the mutated virus, ``There are still many things we don't know, but according to various reports, it seems that the ability to infect has increased. Not yet, but if the number of infected people increases, the number of seriously ill patients may also increase."

Then, Professor Nakayama said that by the time he noticed, the mutated virus could have already spread, and he said, "There may be opportunities to get together during the year-end and New Year holidays, but it won't be 'dense'. I want people to be more self-restraint than ever before, such as refraining from going out."

Director Wakita of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases "The epidemic is not spreading in Japan"

Takaji Wakita, director of the Institute of Infectious Diseases, said, ``The fact that the mutated virus that is spreading in the UK has been confirmed in quarantine does not mean that the epidemic has invaded the country and is spreading. I accept that."

"There is also information that this mutant has a 70% increase in infectiousness, and if it spreads in Japan, it will spread the current epidemic considerably. However, we still do not know about pathogenicity and whether vaccines are effective. In the future, it will be necessary to thoroughly analyze the virus.At the current stage, it will be extremely important to take measures to prevent people from entering the country."

On top of that, ``mutated viruses may enter the country or occur.In addition to wearing a mask, wash your hands, keep a distance between people, avoid the 3 Cs, and drink alcohol. Thorough basic infection control measures, such as avoiding the 'five situations' with high infection risk, such as social gatherings, will remain the same as before, and measures to avoid risky behavior will continue." stressed the need to take

Back to Table of Contents

Corona Mutant Virus What are the symptoms? What about prevention? Expert Opinion (12/25)

December 25, 2020

In the UK, the mutated new coronavirus has spread, and according to the WHO = World Health Organization, it has been confirmed in Denmark and the Netherlands as of the 24th. How was the mutated virus discovered? What are the symptoms? What about prevention? We have summarized the points of the online conference with experts held by WHO on the 23rd.

How was the mutant virus discovered?

Photo by Geoffrey Barrett, Wellcome Sanger Institute, UK

We, the "British Novel Coronavirus Infectious Disease Genome Consortium", are monitoring the mutations of the new coronavirus, and are examining the sequence of the genetic information of the virus contained in the specimens collected for testing. .

We have analyzed about 150,000 sequences, which is more than half of the globally shared novel coronavirus sequence database.

This is 7-8% of all infected people in the UK.

Many are randomly collected from all over the country, and we monitor on a daily and weekly basis what part of the UK is mutating and what kind of virus is occurring.

In the meantime, we have learned that one particular mutant virus in question is spreading very rapidly in the South East of England and in London.

Because the infection spreads at a much faster speed than the previous new coronavirus, it has begun to attract attention not only in Japan but also internationally.

How do I take precautions?

Photo: Frank Cornings, WHO inspector

The important thing is that although the virus has mutated, it is still a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), and the measures taken so far are effective and should continue to be implemented.

What you've been doing over the past year: testing, quarantine, treatment, tracking, keeping your hands clean, keeping your distance from others, keeping your rooms well ventilated, especially now, on vacation. It is very important to open the windows and take in the fresh air when you gather with your family during the period.

It is of course important to wear a mask when necessary.

It's been months and almost a year since I started taking these measures, and I know it won't be easy.

However, we need to continue these measures, especially during the holidays.

We all need to do it together.

Generally speaking, the same testing methods can be used for mutated viruses.

There is information that some scan methods are no longer available, but those scans have some back-up mechanisms to detect viruses.

Antigen tests and tests for quick diagnosis are also effective for mutant viruses.

How are the symptoms different from the previous new coronaviruses?

Judy Brewer, Professor of Virology, University College London

So far, there is no difference in symptoms compared to the new coronavirus, which has already spread to the world.

There is no scientific evidence that the symptoms are different.

We are now gathering detailed and good quality data, which will take some time.

Will it affect the efficacy of the vaccine?

Judy Brewer, Professor of Virology, University College London

No.

The vaccination program has already been implemented as planned.

No plans to change.

There is no evidence immunologically that mutant viruses behave differently.

So I think the vaccine will work just fine.

The UK has already started vaccinating, so we are monitoring the situation closely, but so far there are no signs of a problem, nor is it behaving differently than previous viruses.

Nothing to worry about, I hope the vaccinations are going well.

Are children more susceptible to infection?

Judy Brewer, Professor of Virology, University College London

I have not seen such data.

There are rumors that children are more susceptible to infection.

However, I don't know what kind of data this is based on.

Children go to school, so they can get infected there.

However, it's just that I became more susceptible to infection because I interacted more with people, and it has nothing to do with the infectivity of the virus.

More careful epidemiological investigations are needed and have already begun in the UK.

How do viruses mutate?

Photo: Frank Cornings, WHO inspector

Yes.

This is a very important question.

Mutations can be very scary and panic-inducing.

But it's actually quite normal for viruses to mutate.

Viruses self-replicate.

In other words, make a copy of yourself.

There's always a little mutation there.

Creating a copy is very crude and errors occur in the process.

It's like you make a "wrong mistake" when you write.

This is called mutation in the world of viruses, and mutated viruses are called variants.

Most of the time, these mutations have no effect on infectivity or anything, but occasionally, in the words of scientists, they make the virus better suited to the environment than the original virus.

Then you end up with a more dominant virus in your particular environment.

What do we know about mutating viruses?

Photo by Geoffrey Barrett, Wellcome Sanger Institute, UK

It seems to infect at a faster speed. It's not certain, but the speed of infection of the mutated virus that has been confirmed in various places is very fast.

At the moment, there is no evidence that it is more likely to become severe. We have to gather data over the next few weeks and provide evidence.

Mr. Breuer explained the impact on the efficacy of the vaccine earlier.

How should I prepare?

Photo by Geoffrey Barrett, Wellcome Sanger Institute, UK

Use a mask, keep a distance from people, and avoid gathering with people indoors for long periods of time.

This is true for everyone in the world, not just the UK.

One thing I can say is that with so many mutated viruses found in the UK, it is quite possible that it is already spreading in other countries.

Several cases have been confirmed in the past few days, and more countries will be confirmed in the future.

So ideally everyone around the world should continue with the measures they have been implementing for the last 12 months.

In the coming weeks and months, more detailed data will emerge to give a more detailed answer to this mutant virus.

Back to Table of Contents

New Corona Mutant Virus Expert "Take measures on the premise of entering Japan" (12/21)

December 21, 2020

In response to the spread of the mutated new coronavirus, which is said to be highly contagious, the impact has further increased, such as stopping the acceptance of passenger aircraft from the UK in Europe and other countries around the world. is spreading. According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, it has not been confirmed in Japan so far, but experts say, ``We need to think about countermeasures on the premise that it will eventually enter the country.''

In response to the spread of the mutated new coronavirus in the southeastern part of the country, including the capital London, from December 20th, strict infection control measures such as restrictions on going out in this area were introduced. it was done.

In response to this, in Europe, countries such as Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands have decided to stop accepting passenger planes from the UK, and France and Belgium have also stopped accepting trains and ferries. doing.

In addition, the EU = European Union will urgently hold a meeting of experts on December 21 to analyze the current situation and discuss future responses.

In addition to this, there have been a series of responses outside of Europe, with Iran deciding to suspend international flights to the United Kingdom for two weeks, and according to Reuters, Argentina and Chile in South America have also suspended international flights to and from the United Kingdom. I am announcing that.

Also, from December 22nd, for the time being, Hong Kong will prohibit people who have stayed in the UK for more than 2 hours within 14 days from entering Hong Kong.

In addition, on December 21st, the Indian government announced that it would suspend international flights to and from the United Kingdom from December 22nd to December 31st.

On the other hand, Health Minister Spahn, who is in charge of infection control in Germany, said that he had consulted with experts about the mutated virus and said, ``There is no impact on the vaccine.''

Mutant virus Not confirmed in Japan

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, which is analyzing the genes of the new coronavirus, mutations that have been reported in the UK so far in Japan It means that the virus that was detected has not been confirmed.

Confirmed in Denmark, the Netherlands, and Australia

Mr. Vankerkov, who is the technical director of the new coronavirus response at the World Health Organization, appeared on the British public broadcaster BBC on December 20th. The same mutated virus was found in Britain, as well as in Denmark, the Netherlands and Australia.

After that, Mr. Bankerkov said, ``The mutation of the virus itself can always occur.The important thing is to understand what happens with this mutation.'' I was.

Also, on December 20th, the Italian government announced that it will ban the acceptance of passenger flights from the UK and will also ban the entry of travelers who have stayed in the UK in the past 14 days.

We have already asked people who entered Italy from the UK to be tested, and so far, we have confirmed that one person has been infected with a mutated new coronavirus, so we will isolate and have close contact with family members. I am doing a survey of people.

Expert ``Take countermeasures on the premise that they will enter Japan someday''

Regarding reports of a new type of coronavirus that has mutated in the UK, Professor Yoshiharu Matsuura of Osaka University and President of the Japanese Society for Virology said, "I checked the British paper, and found a mutation in the 'spike protein', which is a stepping stone for virus infection. RNA viruses like the new coronavirus are characterized by mutating one after another. It is common for viruses to become more infectious to increase," he said.

On the other hand, there is no data to show that this mutation has any effect on the severity of symptoms or the efficacy of vaccines, so Professor Matsuura said, If you can't do it, it's a problem, but that point will be researched soon.Also, it's not yet clear whether the toxicity has become stronger. "I'm talking.

Also, "Such mutations will continue to emerge. The UK may have chosen a lockdown out of caution when a mutated virus was found. We need to think about countermeasures on the premise that they will come in."

What is viral mutation?

When the new coronavirus infects humans, it copies the RNA of the gene one after another in human cells, increasing the number.

At this time, in rare cases, mistakes occur in the copied genetic information, and parts of the RNA sequence may suddenly be missing or replaced, and this is called "mutation."

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, in the new coronavirus, such mutations appear to occur at a frequency of about once every two weeks, and many viruses found in Japan have also mutated. that is confirmed.

Usually, even if a part of the gene mutates, the characteristics and properties of the virus do not change significantly.

However, if by chance mutations occur in genes related to the nature of the virus, or if many mutations accumulate, it is said that ▽ it may become easier to be infected or ▽ symptoms may become severe. That's it.

According to previous research, it is said that the properties of the spike protein on the surface of the virus, which serves as a foothold for the new coronavirus to enter cells, affect its infectivity. When this happens, the infectivity may change.

In a study published last month by a group such as the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo, a new coronavirus reported in Wuhan, China, and a European virus that is currently spreading around the world have a spike protein. Part of the gene is different, and in experiments using hamsters, the European strain had the property of being more susceptible to infection.

However, in this experiment, there was no change in the severity of symptoms or response to antibodies.

If the global spread of the new coronavirus increases the opportunities for the virus to infect and proliferate in humans, it is believed that the risk of gene mutations will also increase, and research institutes around the world are investigating the genetic information of the virus. We are vigilant by analyzing .

Current status of travel between Japan and the UK

The government currently denies entry into the UK, so unless there are special circumstances, new entry is not permitted.

The cases where entry from the UK is permitted are ▽ Japanese and foreigners with medium- to long-term residency status, who are required to undergo a virus test and wait at home for 14 days.

In addition, ▽ Japanese and foreigners living in Japan who have gone on a short-term business trip to the UK within 7 days are exempted from the 14-day waiting period under certain conditions when returning or entering the country. .

Back to Table of Contents

Restrictions on going out in London, etc. “Rapid spread of infection with mutated virus” (12/20)

December 20, 2020

British Prime Minister Johnson said that the new coronavirus infection is spreading rapidly, and severe measures such as restrictions on going out will be introduced again from December 20th in the southeastern part of England, including London. clarified. "The rapid spread appears to be caused by a mutated virus," Johnson said.

In the United Kingdom, the infection is spreading rapidly in the southeastern part of England, including London, and Health Minister Hancock announced on December 14 that ``a mutated virus has been confirmed''.

On December 19th, Prime Minister Johnson held a hurried press conference to curb the spread of the infection, asking people to refrain from going out unless there is a valid reason in the southeastern part of the country, including London, and selling daily necessities. It was announced that the same strict measures that were implemented in November, such as not operating retail stores except for some services, will be introduced again from December 20.

Prime Minister Johnson said, ``The rapid spread appears to be caused by a mutated virus.

On the other hand, there is no evidence that the mutated virus makes the symptoms more severe or the vaccine less effective.

In England, restrictions were to be eased for five days from December 23rd to allow up to three families to gather together to spend Christmas together, but in the southeast, the relaxation of restrictions has been postponed. , and other regions will be limited to only one day of Christmas.

Prime Minister Johnson said, "I know everyone will be disappointed. There is no other way as prime minister," and asked for understanding.

Some opposition parties say that the decision just before Christmas is too late.

In the UK, infection with a mutated virus is spreading in western Wales, and similar measures have been introduced from December 20th, and stricter regulations are spreading.

Back to Table of Contents