The government has compiled its new coronavirus infections countermeasures plan. Its main provisions include new indices to closely monitor the infections situation, and expansions of the healthcare system.

       Vaccinations are progressing, and oral medications for COVID-19 are also expected to be approved within the year. The government has reached a new phase in which it intends to restore economic and societal activity while keeping the spread of the virus in check.

       But experts are urging caution over a potential sixth wave of infections. There is no room for complacency.

       Instead of focusing on rises and falls in new infections, the latest indices place greater emphasis on the impact on the healthcare system. The state of infections will be evaluated under a five-tier system numbered 0 to 4, each specifying responses to be taken.

       Decisions on the level to apply will be left to prefectural governments, but appropriate input from experts is also vital. The national government cannot leave everything up to local administrations.

       In the event Level 3 is reached, which requires strong measures including a state of emergency declaration, it is indispensable that the central government work together with local bodies to respond swiftly.

       Regarding expansions of the healthcare system, hospital bed numbers will be increased to the point that patients can be seen even if demand rises by 30% from this past summer's levels. To prevent people's conditions worsening while recovering at home, a system for home visits by doctors and nurses is also being prepared.

       The issue is how feasibility can be ensured. If medical professionals cannot provide care to patients in hospital beds in temporary facilities or to those at accommodation facilities, the system won't function. It is also essential for administrative bodies to make arrangements in advance with medical institutions regarding doctors' visits and other measures.

       At this stage in the pandemic, the system at public health centers needs improvement, after they bent and nearly buckled under the workload of the previous infection waves.

       Success or failure for the government plan will depend on the balance with economic activity.

       The government is investigating scenarios in which, even under a state of emergency, vaccine certificates and other documents allow people to avoid uniform restrictions on movements. Shigeru Omi, head of the government's coronavirus countermeasures subcommittee, has warned against sending contradictory messages to the people.

       National border controls on business travelers and others have also been relaxed. But there are still countries where infections are surging, and that risks a new variant being brought into Japan. Although reopening to tourists is also being reviewed, we call for careful judgment.

       Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has repeatedly said he is "envisaging the worst-case scenario." Is this enough to prepare for a sixth infection wave? The prime minister himself should clearly explain his approach to the public.

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