(On his visit to the vaccination site, upcoming challenges and such)

As the vaccinations of the elderly begin today, I visited the vaccination site in Hachioji City together with Minister Kono. I was extremely impressed by the relieved expression on many faces who were being vaccinated. The vaccine is a trump card against the onset of symptoms and development of severe symptoms and for this reason, I felt that we must advance our efforts so that many people are able to get vaccinated at the earlier possible time.

It is planned that 100 million doses of vaccine will be available by June. Following today's visit, I had an opportunity to exchange opinions with the mayor and others, and I received some comments that they want to receive information quickly as to when the vaccines would arrive. I felt that we must ensure the smooth rollout of vaccines by working in close cooperation with the local authorities while communicating well between the government and the vaccination sites.

 (On the vaccinations of doctors in charge of administrating vaccines)

Since healthcare workers are prioritized in the rollout of vaccines, we hope that they will be vaccinated as soon as possible.

 (On the application of priority measures, such as for prevention of the spread of disease, to Tokyo, Kyoto and Okinawa Prefectures starting from today)

As you have just mentioned, the priority measures, such as for prevention of the spread of disease, to Tokyo and two other prefectures start today. We ask citizens to comply with not only the shortening of operating hours for dining and drinking establishments, but also the fundamental measures such as wearing masks, refraining from speaking in a loud voice, avoiding the three Cs [of closed spaces, crowded places, and close-contact settings] and washing hand to prevent the infections.

 (On the comments that the rollout of vaccines in Japan being relatively delayed)

In Japan, we are conducting clinical trials before the review, thus the process takes about three months. Clinical trials are conducted to prioritize the safety and security of the citizens and that is the reason why the rollout of vaccines is as it is. However, we will advance our efforts to deliver vaccines to many people as soon as possible.

 (On efforts to secure the staff to administer vaccines)

Regarding this issue, we have received various opinions, including those pointing out the nurse shortage on remote islands. The Government will work in cooperation with the local authorities to ensure necessary support.