The variant with the N501Y mutation, first confirmed in the UK is now rampant in Japan. Unlike previous strains, younger people in their thirties to sixties have a higher risk of becoming gravely ill. In Osaka, one of Japan's largest cities, the medical system is overwhelmed and people are dying at home due to a lack of available beds. Meanwhile, the central government says vaccinating the elderly must be finished by the end of July, but will the municipalities responsible be able to meet the deadline? We take a look at the frontline in the battle with the changing coronavirus.Guest:Kutsuna Satoshi (National Center for Global Health and Medicine)

According to a UN report released two years ago, the fashion industry emits more carbon annually than all international flights and maritime shipping combined. Many say sustainable fashion is the only way forward. Manufacturers are now producing clothes made with everything from old fishing nets to synthetic protein developed with the genetic information of spiders. In today's program, we look at how our wardrobe choices can help lead to a greener world.Guest: Miyata Hiroaki (Professor, Keio University)

This spring, young nurses in Japan started their careers amid unprecedented circumstances. They entered the workforce without the usual hands-on training due to the pandemic, but were nonetheless forced to contend with a surge in cases stemming from a fourth wave of coronavirus infection. We highlight how these novice nurses have overcome their anxieties and provided the best care possible.Guest: Nakamoto Risa (Nurse/Illustrator)*Today's Close-Up will continue to report on COVID-19.