【Q＆A】Frequently asked questions about the new coronavirus (COVID-19)
Q.1

Have the rules changed in Japan regarding the new coronavirus?

A.1

From May 8, 2023, the new coronavirus will be classified as Category 5, the same asseasonal influenza. Based on the Infectious Disease Control Law, people who have tested
positive for the new coronavirus and those who have had close contact with them are no longer
required to refrain from going out. From October 2023, there will be changes to the public
expense burden for new coronavirus treatment drugs, the amount of subsidies for
hospitalization medical expenses, etc.
Q.2

If I go to the hospital due to the new coronavirus, will my payment be higher thanbefore?
A.2 From May 8, 2023, 10% to 30% of medical expenses will be at your own expense.
The cost of testing for the new coronavirus is also your responsibility. Until the end of
September, expensive treatment drugs for the new coronavirus were paid for by public funds,
but from October 2023, 10% to 30% of the cost for treatment for the new coronavirus will beyour own responsibility. However, even if the co-payment is 30%, the burden for expensive
drugs such as Lagebryo, which is effective in preventing serious illness, will only be around
10% of the drug price. Also, as before, you will need to pay for antipyretic painkillers and sorethroat medicines out of your own pocket.
Q.3 I want to get the coronavirus vaccine. Does it cost money?
A.3

The vaccination fee is free until March 31, 2024. Corona vaccination began on

September 20, 2023 under new rules. Anyone who wishes to receive the vaccine can receive
the vaccine free of charge starting from the age of 6 months. A vaccination ticket is required.
Q.4I have a fever. Both the new coronavirus and influenza are circulating. Can I test athome? What should I do if I want to go to the hospital?
A.4 The "simultaneous testing kit" can check for both the new coronavirus and influenza
infection with a single test. You can buy it at a pharmacy with a pharmacist or online.
Choose one that says "in vitro diagnostic drug" or "Class 1 drug." If you would like to see adoctor, please call your family hospital. If you are not sure which hospital to go to, please call
MieCo.

TEL 080-3300-8077 (Monday to Friday)

Q.5

If I get the new coronavirus, how many days should I avoid going to school or nurseryschool?
A.5

The risk of infecting others is particularly high during the first 5 days after onset ofsymptoms, so it is recommended that people refrain from going out for 5 days starting fromthe day of onset of symptoms. The period of suspension of attendance due to the newcoronavirus infection is ``5 days after onset of symptoms and 1 day after symptoms havesubsided''.
Q.6

Is a COVID-19 test required before entering Japan from overseas?

A.6

No coronavirus test is required before entering Japan. A vaccination certificate is also

not required.
Q.7

Due to the new coronavirus, I took time off from work. Can I receive Injury andSickness Allowance?
A.7

Injury and Sickness Allowance is available if you are absent from work for a period oftime due to illness or injury. Application is required. From May 8, 2023, a doctor's certificate
will be required even in the case of the new coronavirus. You will not receive sickness andinjury benefits for the first three days. You can receive sick pay from the 4th day, so if you
take 5 days off, you can receive sickness and injury benefits on the 4th and 5th days. If you
get paid on days off, you won't receive sick pay.