August 5, 2021
August 4, 2021
To all students,
Since June 28, Kobe University has been vaccinating its staff and students against the novel coronavirus. Half of our student population has already received their 1st dose and from next week onwards we are planning to offer them their 2nd dose.
Administration of 1st doses is due to finish at the end of this week (Friday August 6), therefore those who are considering getting the vaccine but have not done so yet are advised to make a reservation as soon as possible.
At present, coronavirus mutations such as the Delta variant (that are more virulent and are resulting in a higher percentage of serious cases than the original strain) are raging in countries worldwide, including Japan. Although case are rising sharply again, it has been reported that Moderna and Pfizer vaccines have some beneficial effects even against variants (such as reducing rates of infection and the appearance of symptoms, as well as curbing the percentage of serious cases and deaths).
Even though it has been said that the percentages of serious cases and deaths from the virus among young people are comparatively low, it has also been reported that over 20% develop light symptoms (such as loss of taste, loss of smell and fatigue) that last for over 6 months.
In addition, even though the degree and presence of vaccination side effects will vary depending on the individual, it has been reported that side effects will disappear three days after vaccination in the majority of people.
Therefore, we recommend that you consider receiving the vaccination via the university, a large-scale vaccination center or your local government, not only for your own sake, but to help protect your family and the people around you from infection.
In the Fall, we are preparing to start the new semester with a return to face-to-face classes and club activities, with each and every student exercising self-awareness and following the infection prevention measures. We hope that this will lead us one step closer to returning to normal student life.
OHMURA Naoto
Executive Vice President in Charge of Education and Internationalization
YAMAMOTO Yasuji
Director of the Medical Center for Student Health