The explosive spread of delta variant infections across the country has placed our healthcare system under enormous strain. As a result, starting August 27, a state of emergency has been declared not only in Aichi Prefecture, but in Gifu Prefecture and Mie Prefecture as well.
Nagoya University has made extensive efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19, and at present, we do not have any plans to change our Guidelines for Activities at Nagoya University During the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic. However, the delta variant is significantly more infectious, and there is a major risk of cluster infections if we are not extremely careful. We ask that all students, faculty and staff members act more responsibly than ever before, with full awareness of the severity of our current situation.
Many of you have been receiving vaccinations at the on-campus vaccination site that we opened in July, and we continue to administer second doses. Please remember, though, that the vaccine requires a certain amount of time after the second dose to become effective, and it does not provide 100% immunity. Even if you are fully vaccinated, please take utmost care to maintain good anti-infection practices.
Continue to avoid the 3Cs, wear a mask, sanitize your hands, and refrain from unnecessary and non-urgent travel. Furthermore, we are still receiving many reports of cases where people become infected or are exposed and become close contacts because they ate in groups. We ask in the strongest possible terms that you avoid eating or drinking with anyone (including at home and in your own room), with the exception of family members you live with. If you feel even slightly unwell, or if you are scheduled to receive a PCR test, please contact the Health Administration Office.
We ask that all of you do your part to help us get back to our normal lives as soon as possible. Thank you.
Tokai National Higher Education and Research System, Nagoya University
Seiichi Matsuo, President