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On February 20, 2020, the Prime Minister held a press conference at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence.
 
Regarding the death of patients related to the cruise ship under quarantine at Yokohama Port and the Government’s future responses, the Prime Minister said,
 
“I would like to offer my heartfelt prayers for the repose of the two persons who passed away today and express my condolences for their bereaved families.
 
Regarding the Diamond Princess, we are conducting screening on elderly passengers and persons with underlying conditions with priority, and providing medical treatment at hospitals to those who have tested positive.
 
Starting yesterday, those who have tested negative in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening and have no health issues have been permitted to disembark the ship. We will continue to take all possible measures going forward.
 
Furthermore, we will exert every effort to prevent further outbreak in Japan and the deterioration of patients’ symptoms while collaborating even more closely with the respective local governments.
 
The Government has a major responsibility to protect the health and lives of the people. I intend for the Government to work as one and devote every effort to fulfill that responsibility.”