If you’re studying with us now or plan to do so, you’re probably curious about how Japan – and we – are handling the latest Asian virus outbreak. The bottom line is: there’s virtually no risk in Japan, but we’re still taking every measure possible. Here’s our Coronavirus Update.
The situation as of now
As of today, February 5 2020, a few cases of novel coronavirus have been reported in Japan. Currently, no cases have been reported in areas close to our schools, and Japan has placed entry restrictions that should prevent or limit the future spread of the virus, so overall, coming to Japan is still extremely safe. However, GenkiJACS is monitoring the situation closely, and in conjunction with advice provided by local and national government, we have taken several measures to ensure student safety in the future too.
Japan has some of the most advanced medical facilities in the world. Several of the very few people treated for the virus have already recovered, while there was no fatalities.
School Facilities
– Hand sanitizer is available in all classrooms and shared areas.
– All desks, tables and doorknobs at school are sanitized every day.
– Anti-bacterial air sanitizing products are placed in common areas.
– Surgical masks are available free of charge for staff or students.
Desks, doorknobs and more are disinfected everyday.
Staff and Student Support
– We confirm with all students on their first day whether they have been to Wuhan City or Hubei Province in the last 14 days.
– For any students or staff who feel sick, or show symptoms such as coughing, headache, etc, administrative staff check their temperature, and if they have a fever of over 37.5 degrees, ask them to not attend class. Thereafter, we take additional measures as recommended by local and national government.
– Out of an abundance of caution, we may cancel classes at the last minute if a teacher is not feeling well. We apologize in advance if this occurs, and will of course do our best to minimize the impact on student classes.
– We advise students and staff on best hygiene practices to minimize any potential spread.
Advice to Current Students
The advice we provide to all current students is based on recommendations from the national government.
– Please wash your hands carefully using antibacterial soap, especially after having gone out, and use hand sanitizer whenever you feel necessary.
– If you have a cough, please wear a mask, or cough into a tissue or the elbow of your clothes.
– Avoid touching your face (especially eyes and mouth) as much as possible.
– If worried, we recommend avoiding public places with lots of people.
– If you have been to Wuhan in the last two weeks, or have interacted with someone who has, please tell staff.
– If you feel that you may have coronavirus symptoms, please contact staff straight away, who will recommend a hospital for a checkup.
Advice for Students Coming to Japan
– Because of the possibility that Japan may place further restrictions on entry in the future, we recommend all students to avoid visiting China before coming to Japan, and to avoid taking flights that transfer in China before arriving in Japan.
As the situation continues to change, we may issue updated advice again in the future. We want to emphasize that currently, Japan is extremely safe to visit, and there are no real effects on day to day life. We’re looking forward to seeing you at one of our Japanese schools in Japan soon!
