Fighting an all-out war against the Delta variant of COVID-19

Similarly threatening our lives is COVID-19. Right now, we are facing the biggest crises since the start of the battle against this disease. We have, for a long period of time, received the enormous cooperation and commitment of the people and businesses of Tokyo, and healthcare providers. I would like to extend my deepest appreciation and also remind you that the people of Tokyo must come together as one, applying our combined strengths in the battle against this “invisible enemy.”

Infections are spreading at an unprecedented speed as the original COVID-19 is rapidly replaced by the Delta variant, which is said to be about twice as more transmissible and is the strongest virus acknowledged so far. It also appears different from the third or fourth wave of the infection in Tokyo: about 70 percent of new positive cases are the under-40 younger generations, and severe patients are shifting to those in their 40s and 50s.

Right now, what we need to do is to properly realize the threats of the Delta variant. And we must confront this powerful enemy by boldly rolling out strategies in line with the ever-changing condition. We must simultaneously take both the “offense,” such as vaccination and antibody cocktails, and the “defense,” by restraining the movement of people and taking basic steps to prevent infection. By positioning the current situation as a “state of medical emergency,” we will thoroughly protect the precious lives and health of Tokyo citizens. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) will devote its full resources to this battle.