In Japan, there is currently a debate among government officials and experts regarding whether to reclassify the coronavirus as an infection on par with seasonal influenza. Japan confirmed its first case of the virus in January 2020, and since then the number of cases has been increasing. Currently, COVID-19 is classified as category 2 in the country's Infectious Diseases Control Law, the second most severe category, while seasonal influenza is classified as category 5, the lowest level of the five-stage classification system. Under category 2, the government is able to impose wide-ranging restrictions such as lockdowns, school closures, and suspension of events but also has the obligation to cover the costs of testing, treatment, and vaccination.
The reclassification of the virus would have significant consequences for the government's response to the pandemic. If reclassified as a seasonal influenza, the government would have less authority to impose restrictions and would have fewer obligations to cover the costs of testing and treatment. This would also have significant implications for the public's perception of the virus, as it may be viewed as less severe.
The debate over reclassifying COVID-19 as a seasonal influenza is multifaceted and complex. On one hand, government officials and experts have called for an immediate review of the legal status of the coronavirus in order to alleviate the pandemic's impact on social and economic activities, as well as to simplify the system for reporting new cases and shortening the period of convalescence at home. They argue that the number of cases in Japan is still high and that the risk of a resurgence is still present, and that the cost of testing and treatment for COVID-19 is a burden for the government.
On the other hand, some officials and experts argue that due to the sudden increase in virus-related deaths in Japan and the recent explosive increase in infections in other countries, a cautious discussion is needed. They argue that the number of cases in Japan has been decreasing and that the vaccine roll-out has been successful. They also point out that the reclassification of the virus as a seasonal influenza would have significant implications for public health and that it could lead to a lack of public vigilance and compliance with public health measures. They also argue that the cost of testing and treatment for COVID-19 is a necessary investment to protect public health.
In conclusion, the decision to reclassify COVID-19 as a seasonal influenza is a complex one that involves balancing the public health risks and benefits with the economic and social consequences. The government and experts are currently assessing the situation and evaluating the available data to make a decision. The situation is evolving and the government may adjust their policy as the situation changes.