Japan gov't urges people to get additional COVID shot by year-end

TOKYO -- Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno called on Oct. 21 for people in Japan to promptly receive their additional COVID-19 shot for the omicron variant after the vaccination interval was shortened to "three months or longer" the same day.

The interval was previously "five months or longer." Matusno said at a press conference, "We ask that you get vaccinated as soon as possible during this year to protect yourself and your loved ones."

He pointed out, "Infections spread during the year-end and New Year period every year, and this year there are concerns about a simultaneous outbreak with the flu. This period is also an important time for many people, as they visit their parents' homes, take (entrance) exams and so on."

Matsuno also said that "overseas travel will also go smoother" because if people get three or more vaccinations it will eliminate the need for a COVID test upon returning from overseas, and asked for people's understanding.

The government is working to establish a system to provide 1 million vaccinations per day so that all targeted people who wish to do so can receive the jab by the end of the year.

(Japanese original by Akira Murao, Political News Department)