Friday, May 22, 2009
Headquarters for Countermeasures against Influenza A (H1N1)
Photograph of the meeting of the Headquarters for Countermeasures against Influenza A (H1N1) (1)
Taking into account the characteristics of influenza A (H1N1), the Basic Response Policy was decided anew at the meeting, which established goals of minimizing impacts on the people's daily lives and the economy and preventing infection, and of protecting people with underlying medical conditions. In carrying out the Basic Response Policy, regions with incidences of influenza A (H1N1) will largely be categorized into two groups: (i) regions at the initial stage of the spread of infection, where the number of cases of infection is small and where measures to prevent the spread of infection are required; and (ii) regions where the number of cases of infection is rapidly increasing and where a focus should be placed on the prevention of severe cases. Whether a region belongs to the first group or the second will be decided by each city that establishes health centers or each prefecture, after consulting with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
In the opening address, Prime Minister Aso said, "The number of cases of infection is largely disproportionate among regions, which makes it all the more important for local authorities to pursue flexible responses according to the individual circumstances in their respective localities. I call on the Headquarters to revise the Basic Response Policy, including the policy for front-line measures, so as to clearly stipulate flexible principles for response that are in line with the fundamentals for measures. I also call on the members of the Headquarters to further strengthen efforts to promote measures, in close partnership with local authorities and relevant organizations, that take into account the individual circumstance in each region, and to ensure the prevention of the spread of infection and the provision of on-target medical care. I request that utmost efforts be made to ensure the safety and peace of mind of the people, by continuing to provide timely and pertinent information to the public in order for the people to remain vigilant and maintain their composure."
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Photograph of the meeting of the Headquarters for Countermeasures against Influenza A (H1N1) (2)
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