The Japanese Health Ministry has confirmed that they have found a new variant of COVID-19. Recently, this new variant is found among travelers from Brazil. They have also confirmed that this newly found variant is different from those in South Africa and the UK.
This new variant of coronavirus was found during tests on the airport. One male patient in his 40s, a woman in her 30s, and two teenagers were positive. However, there was no symptom in the man during the arrival, but now, he is in hospital for experiencing difficulty in breathing.
The woman and one male teenager also experienced headaches, and the other female teenager has no symptoms so far. Currently, Japan’s health officials are working with WHO and other countries’ medical experts to analyze this new variant. But unfortunately, it’s still not clear if currently available vaccines would work on this new variant or not. Moreover, all passengers who have traveled to Brazil recently are in quarantine now.
Japan’s situation in COVID-19
After the recent outbreak of COVID cases, around 30 cases of variants from the UK have also been reported. Japan’s Health Ministry is concerned over public health and the fast-spreading of these new variants.
As a result, Japan’s government has declared an emergency in Tokyo City by asking bars and restaurants to close before 8 pm. However, residents are still not happy about the situation as many public areas like railway stations are still operating with a packed crowd. Moreover, Japan is also going to host events like the Olympics and Paralympics this summer.
Recently, the total number of COVID cases in Japan crossed the mark of 200,000. Many major cities across the whole country are experiencing a sudden rise in cases. Many government officials have already stated that they need to stay on alert. They have also warned major hospitals to keep themselves ready and have promised financial supports as well.
