The Omicron variant now accounts for the majority of new COVID-19 infections, and the virus is spreading with a higher transmissibility and shorter incubation period than Delta and previous variants. In order to prevent the further spread of infections, it is vital not only to continue previously implemented infection prevention measures, but also to self-quarantine as soon as possible after coming into contact with someone who tests positive.
Public health centers officially determine who are close contacts through contact tracing of individuals who test positive for COVID-19. The Keio University Health Center conducts questioning when contacted by individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and requests that those who suspect being in close contact with said individuals self-quarantine. However, this approach is not always effective when dealing with the Omicron variant, which has an incubation period of two to three days. Therefore, the Keio University Infection Response Center for COVID-19 has decided to ask undergraduate and graduate students who test positive to take initiative in contacting people they suspect to be close contacts directly, rather than waiting for the public health center or Keio University Health Center to investigate.
Please reference for details about what to do if you test positive for COVID-19:
As these documents describe, when considering the highly infectious nature of the Omicron variant, even brief encounters when eating or drinking without a mask or being near someone with the virus while wearing a mask incorrectly, will lead to being considered a close contact. First and foremost, we ask that each and every student practice thorough infection prevention in their day-to-day lives to avoid potentially becoming a close contact. Additionally, we request that you act swiftly to contact those you suspect were in close contact with you if you test positive. For those who meet the criteria to be considered a close contact, please self-quarantine (monitor your health at home) for seven days beginning the day after you met with the person who tested positive.
◆To all Keio students
Extracurricular activities were suspended until the end of the Fall Semester-end examinations period. This was because the top priority was to conduct in-person classes and exams at the university and graduate schools as originally scheduled. In accordance with the official notification on the matter (please refer here for more details), the suspension of all extracurricular activities will be lifted. Meanwhile, the Omicron variant continues to spread in the Tokyo metropolitan area, prompting the need to consider the risk of infection posed by club activities. Should a student who has participated in student club activities test positive for COVID-19, the relevant club be asked to take immediate steps that correspond to the nature of their club activities to prevent the spread of infection, such as temporarily suspending in-person activities.
For more detailed information about what to do if someone tests positive for COVID-19:
Note that this document is intended to be read before an infection is confirmed within a student club. We ask that student clubs be prepared to deal with a positive COVID-19 case should it be discovered, and utilize this guidance to take measures in advance to minimize the spread of infection and facilitate the continuation of club activities. In addition, please give due consideration to students who wish to opt out of participating in club activities in order to prevent COVID-19 infection, and refrain from forcing individuals to participate or creating a culture in which students feel compelled to do so.
◆To all faculty and staff membersFor faculty, staff, and students at affiliated schools, the Keio University Health Center will continue the routine method of conducting questioning and determining suspected close contacts. As the Omicron variant warrants swift action, we ask that you get in touch with the
Keio University Health Center immediately if you test positive.