-A message given by Governor Tasso during the 21st meeting of the Iwate Prefecture COVID-19 Countermeasures HQ (Sept 3rd)-

The day before yesterday (9/1), we had confirmed positive cases of patients originally from out-of-prefecture,
but were counted as Iwate cases due to their job assignments placed within the prefecture.
I sincerely wish a speedy recovery for the infected patients.
Not only limited to the medical field or the public transportation or
logistics industries that are vital to maintaining the daily lives of all residents,
various projects related to the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Reconstruction were conducted
with the help of those from out-of-prefecture. Therefore, I would like to ask all residents to remain calm and extend their compassion to everyone,
even if they are from out-of-prefecture.

The prefectural government has worked to find infected patients as swiftly as possible by expanding our testing system,
as a measure to prevent the further spread of the virus.
We have also reinforced our medical service system by designating medical institutions for prioritized care to acquire more hospital beds,
as well as, acquiring accommodation facilities for patients with mild to no symptoms.

For all residents, I would like to implore again to continue practicing basic preventative measures,
such as avoiding the “3 Cs” indoors, washing your hands frequently, wearing masks, and following the coughing etiquette.

The prefectural government has also decided to propose a 4th supplementary budget plan, given the circumstance of our first confirmed cases,
in which we have been seeing an increase since then, and the state of various socio-economic activities
since the approval of the last supplementary budget.

In order to provide the best medical services, in addition to the aforementioned acquiring of more hospital beds at designated medical
institutions for prioritized care, we are looking to improve the medical care system
or consider short-stay arrangements for children who require long-term medical assistance,
should a further spread of the virus may severely impact their medical care needs.

Additionally, we will offer a major increase in the prefecture’s no-interest or low-interest loan limit;
provide financial assistance to SMEs; aid railways, local buses, and taxis, which are vital methods of transportation for the region;
and also support local organizations that conduct various artistic and cultural activities. By widely responding to the varying voices and
demands from multiple fields and industries, we will work hard to prevent the further spread of the virus,
including implementing measures to further support socio-economic activities.

The prefectural government will continue to work with municipalities and related organizations
to conduct various COVID-19 countermeasures in order to achieve our goal for a joyful Iwate, Home of the Hope,
where we can protect and nurture each other’s happiness.

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