Japan confirms first omicron case

Source: The Hill | November 30, 2021 | Maureen Breslin

Japan confirmed its first case of the COVID-19 omicron variant on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press

The infection was found in a Namibian diplomat in his 30s who recently entered Japan, the AP noted. The diplomat, who tested positive for COVID-19 when he landed at Tokyo Narita Airport Sunday, is receiving care at a hospital. 

Initially, the man had no symptoms. However, he is now showing signs of fever, Chief Cabinet Secretary Shigeyuki Goto said, according to the news service. Japanese health officials reportedly stated that the diplomat had been fully vaccinated with the Moderna vaccine as of July. 

There were 70 passengers on the flight the diplomat took to Japan, two of whom included his family members, reports the AP, which added that they have so far tested negative for COVID-19. 

The family members are self-isolating at Japanese quarantine facilities and are being monitored remotely for symptoms by the health officials in Japan, Goto said, reports the AP. 

The 10 crew members aboard the diplomat’s plane did not remain in Japan.

On Monday, Japan banned foreign visitors from entering the nation amid concerns over the new omicron variant, which was first detected in South Africa. The ban went into effect at the strike of midnight Monday.

Only short-term business travelers, international students, and citizens are permitted entry to Japan and must quarantine for two weeks upon entry.

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