This is part 9 of our coronavirus FAQ. Click here to read the other installments: #Coronavirus the facts. Find the latest information and answers from experts on everything COVID-19.
Q: How will the state of emergency declaration affect medical services?
Medical institutions will remain open. Visits to medical facilities are considered essential outings that will not be restricted even under a stay-at-home request. But local governments will make arrangements to prepare for a peak in the outbreak, including nominating some facilities to specialize in the coronavirus and moving other patients to other facilities.
Q:How will nursing care be affected?
Governors of prefectures subject to the emergency declaration can request closures and scaled down operation of facilities that provide day care and short-stay care. Care providers that shut their facilities will be asked to continue offering essential services in other ways, such as sending staff to people’s homes.
Governors cannot request the closure of residential facilities or home care providers. These care providers are being asked to take preventive measures and continue their services.
Q: What about child daycare facilities?
Governors can ask to limit the use of child daycare centers, including a temporary closure of such facilities. Parents who can work from home or take leave will be asked to refrain from using daycare. However, municipal leaders will study other ways to provide childcare for healthcare workers and other people whose work is deemed essential to keep society running, as well as single parents who cannot afford to take time off work.
The data presented here are correct as of April 8, 2020.