Key words and phrases:
A shaky start: a weak start, not looking like success is possible
Rollout: launch, release
On the right track: moving in a positive direction
Snail’s pace: moving very slowly, like a snail
Ramp up: increase in number, especially in production
Gather/gain momentum: increase in speed
Tack: a boating expression used to express the course the boat is on
Take a deep dive: a detailed examination of a subject
At a glance: at a quick look
Closing the gap: to reduce or eliminate the difference between two people or groups
Enlist: enroll, sign up
Adhere to: follow a plan or rule
Stick to: follow a plan or rule
The best way forward: the best way to solve a problem
Arguments can be made for both sides: both sides have pros and cons
After a shaky start, we can now see that Japan is heading in the right direction with its vaccine rollout. To be sure, Japan did have a slow start and there was much criticism of the snail’s pace at which the program was moving. However, now things are different. Japan has ramped up its vaccination program and it continues to gain momentum.
Some people still point out that Japan is far behind most developed countries. That is true at present, but that is because Japan has tacked in a different direction than many other countries. Let’s take a deep dive into the numbers and find out what Japan is doing differently. Since we need a country of comparison, let me use my homeland, Canada, to illustrate the point.
At the time of this writing, Canada has partially or fully vaccinated 57% of its population, whereas Japan has completed only 7% of its population. As you may know, partially vaccinated means having one of the two required shots and fully vaccinated means having both of the required shots. At a glance, it would appear that Canada was doing 8 times better than Japan. However, when we look at fully vaccinated people, Canada is at just over 5% and Japan is about 2.5%. And, Japan is closing the gap quickly with the recent addition of vaccination centers and enlisting more people to administer vaccines.
So, what is Japan doing differently. Not surprisingly, Japan tends to adhere to protocols and Western countries tend to take a more flexible approach. The manufactures’ guidelines recommend roughly 21 days between shots, and Japan is sticking to that. However, Canada has stretched that to 122 days. The logic behind this is that it is better to have more people partially vaccinated. Japan believes having people fully vaccinated is the best way forward.
Which way is best? Arguments can be made for both side. That is for doctors and academics to figure out.
For citizens and residents of Japan like you and me, the good news is that we will all likely be vaccinated by the end of the year. This will allow us to have freedoms that we have not been able to enjoy for over a year. We are not quite there yet, but knowing that freedom is within reach can help us all get through a couple more months of isolation. Let’s get through this together so we can meet and enjoy some time together when it is safe to do so. I can’t wait!!!
Wishing you health and happiness, always.
Mark Tofflemire
Tailor Made Inc.