I would like to again thank you—the people and businesses of Tokyo—for your ongoing cooperation in the battle against COVID-19. I also wish to express my gratitude to all of the doctors, nurses, and other health care providers for their dedication and hard work.

Thanks to your efforts, the current wave of COVID-19 infections is beginning to settle down.

However, if we let up now, that would leave the door open for a resurgence of the virus. And, all of our efforts would have been in vain. It is essential that we share a strong determination to prevent a rebound in cases.

We have designated the upcoming weeks through October 24th as the Rebound Prevention Period.

“Don’t get infected, and don’t infect others.” To achieve this, there is nothing more important than firmly implementing and continuing steps to prevent the spread of infection. Your ongoing cooperation will be greatly appreciated.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will work to build up the health care provision system in preparation for the next wave and speed up measures to put an end to the pandemic.

With preventing serious illness from developing as our first priority, we will increase the number of oxygen and medical care stations that administer antibody cocktails. Through this and other efforts, we will secure hospital beds.
In addition, we will steadily advance vaccinations. We have expanded eligibility at the TMG’s mass vaccination centers to include anyone 12 years of age or older who lives, works, or goes to school in Tokyo.
Fellow citizens, the fight against COVID-19 is not over.

While keeping infection under control by encouraging a combination of “offensive measures,” such as the use of vaccines and antibody cocktails, and “defensive actions,” such as firmly taking steps to prevent infection, we will boldly advance initiatives that need to be taken to give the people of Tokyo a new hopeful outlook.

Thank you for your continued cooperation.