Japan Eases COVID-19 Testing Criteria... Removes 'Fever of 37.5℃ or Higher' Standard

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has decided to relax the criteria for genetic testing (PCR) to confirm infection with the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), according to reports by Yomiuri and Nihon Keizai Shimbun on the 7th.

According to their reports, the Ministry of Health plans to delete the 'fever of 37.5℃ or higher' criterion, which had been criticized as excessively strict, and revise the COVID-19 consultation and treatment guidelines so that people with high fever, difficulty breathing, fatigue, etc., can immediately seek consultation.

The COVID-19 consultation and treatment guidelines announced by the Ministry of Health in February stipulated ▲fever of 37.5℃ or higher lasting four days (two days for the elderly) ▲severe fatigue ▲difficulty breathing.

Due to ongoing criticism that suspected COVID-19 patients were unable to receive PCR tests because of these criteria, the Ministry belatedly decided to ease the standards.

Suspected COVID-19 patients in Japan typically undergo consultation at 'Returnees and Contact Persons Consultation Centers' established at public health centers before receiving PCR tests.

Earlier, at a press conference on the night of the 4th, when the extension of the state of emergency declared nationwide was decided, the expert panel advising the government on COVID-19 measures announced that the Ministry of Health would review the COVID-19 testing criteria.

Shigeru Omi, Chairman of the Regional Medical Function Promotion Organization, stated, "Although the number of tests that can be conducted daily is increasing, it is necessary to increase it further," and emphasized, "Tests should be conducted promptly for those who need them, including people with mild symptoms."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.