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Correspondent
Japan s government is extending its coronavirus state of emergency by two weeks for the greater Tokyo area. It was set to expire this weekend, but will now continue until March 21 in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama and Chiba prefectures.
The declaration has been in place since January 8. Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide says the two-week extension aims for a further reduction of new infections – and to bring the outbreak under control.
Suga told a Diet committee session on Thursday that the region s coronavirus status has improved almost enough to lift the declaration. But there are still strict indicators, such as the tight situation with hospital beds, he said. I think an extension of about two weeks may be necessary to protect people s lives and livelihoods.
Japan's Health Ministry officials have confirmed the number of patients with serious conditions has topped 1,000 the highest since the start of the pandemic.
Correspondent The rapid spread of COVID-19 across the country has created a situation that could have a serious impact on people s lives and the economy.
That was the message from Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide at a news conference on Thursday as he declared a second state of emergency to help contain the virus. This declaration is less expansive, but more intensive, than the one last April.
The declaration covers Tokyo and the prefectures of Kanagawa, Saitama and Chiba. It will remain in place until February 7.
The key to curbing the virus is said to lie with dining and drinking establishments. Bars and restaurants are being asked to close by 8 p.m. and to stop serving alcohol an hour earlier. Residents are being asked to refrain from non-essential outings after 8 p.m. Businesses that fail to comply without good reason will be named publicly.