In accordance with “Policy on Changes in the Status of Infectious Diseases under the Infectious Diseases Control Act” (approved by the Novel Coronavirus Task Force on 2023.1.27), unless special circumstances arise, such as the emergence of a variant that differs significantly in virulence from the Omicron strain, the Japanese government has decided that, effective May 8, 2023, COVID-19 will no longer fall under the category of novel influenza under the Infectious Diseases Control Act, and it will be downgraded to a Category 5 infectious disease (i.e., the same as seasonal influenza). The Task Force determined this time frame primarily to ensure a preparation period for national and local government agencies, medical institutions, and other organizations. As seen in the changes to the rules for wearing masks and for holding events that were to go into effect first, this policy essentially indicated that existing infection control measures would be significantly modified between the end of January and March 2023 and that the national government and other authorities would not impose various restrictions on activities.
　Ritsumeikan University will discontinue the operation of the Ritsumeikan University Action Guidelines in Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak (Business Continuity Plan: BCP) on March 31, 2023 in light of these circumstances and due to the fact that it is sensible to make these revisions when the fiscal year changes in terms of both university operations and informing students, faculty and staff. Since various restrictions on activities will no longer be necessary after the BCP is discontinued, we will not do this except when specifically requested by the national or local government. We recommend that everyone continue to use ventilation and practice hand hygiene, which are effective means of preventing COVID-19 infections. We will not abolish the BCP, and it may be reinstated if the national government enacts new countermeasures in the event that a variant that differs from the Omicron strain emerges.
　As of March 12, 2023, the Rules for Mask Wearing at Ritsumeikan University will be discontinued, and the wearing of masks will be left to the discretion of each individual. We may request the wearing of masks in cases when mask-wearing is recommended to prevent the spread of infection. In addition, we may reinstate these rules if the national government enacts new countermeasures in the event that a variant that differs significantly in virulence from the Omicron strain emerges.
　After March 31, 2023, you will no longer need to report COVID-19 infections and close contacts to the Medical Service Center. We will also discontinue the use of the Ritsumeikan University Guidelines to Prevent the Spread of Novel Coronavirus Infections (Ver. 4) and the Manual for the Prevention of Novel Coronavirus Infections (Ver. 4). Regarding the suspension of attendance for school-based infectious diseases, we will issue a separate announcement to inform you about the reporting procedures, including the submission of Infection Notice forms.
　Please refer to the separate announcement from the Division of Academic Affairs about the policy for classes and examinations in AY2023. Also, please check the official website for information on the policy for commencement and matriculation ceremonies.

1. We will discontinue the operation of the Ritsumeikan University Action Guidelines in Response to the COVID-19 Outbreak (Business Continuity Plan: BCP) on March 31, 2023.

2. As of March 12, 2023, the Rules for Mask Wearing at Ritsumeikan University will be discontinued, and the wearing of masks will be left to the discretion of each individual.

3. After March 31, 2023, you will no longer need to report COVID-19 infections and close contacts to the Medical Service Center.

4. The Division of Academic Affairs will send a separate announcement on the policy for classes and examinations. Please check the official website for information on the policy for commencement and matriculation ceremonies.