In a first for the Emperor and Empress, the Imperial couple interacted with the public online on Wednesday.
The Emperor and Empress used a videoconferencing system at the Akasaka Imperial Palace to talk with medical workers at the Japanese Red Cross Medical Center in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo.
Through the video link, the director of the hospital guided the Imperial couple around the hospital to areas such as a ward with special beds for patients infected with the novel coronavirus. Patients in moderate and serious condition are treated there.
They also saw the Emergency Intensive Care Unit, where they learned about extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment and other aspects, according to the hospital.
The Imperial couple also spoke to doctors and nurses at the hospital.
"I'm sure it's been a long and difficult time for you," the Emperor said.
The Empress added, "We respect your hard work."
Both of them thanked the medical workers for their commitment to patients.
They also listened to medical experts in a videoconference linking three Red Cross hospitals from across Japan.
The Emperor and Empress wanted to visit medical facilities in person to encourage people amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to the Imperial Household Agency. However, they decided to do so online because there is a limit to measures against infection when visiting medical facilities.
The Imperial Household Agency has been cautious of the use of online communication methods by the Imperial couple. The agency said, however, it will continue to use these methods because there is no opportunity for the Imperial couple to interact with the public in person with no prospects for the end of the pandemic in sight.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
