In a significant policy turnaround, the health ministry announced Thursday that those age 80 or older will be able to disembark the Diamond Princess if they test negative for COVID-19.

Health minister Katsunobu Kato said such individuals will be allowed to leave the ship as early as Friday but will need to stay at lodgings provided by the government for the time being.

Passengers who meet the age requirement and have pre-existing conditions or are staying in rooms without functional windows will be prioritized for disembarkation.