ZCZC
BFF-15
HEALTH-VIRUS-JAPAN
Japan to partially lift virus state of emergency
TOKYO, Feb 26, 2021 (BSS/AFP) – Japan will end a coronavirus state of
emergency early in some regions as the pace of infection slows, reports said
Friday, less than five months before the pandemic-postponed Tokyo Olympics.
The emergency measure — currently in force in 10 regions including Tokyo –
– is looser than the strict lockdowns seen elsewhere in the world, and
primarily calls for bars and restaurants to close from 8pm.
It is due to end on March 7, but the government will lift the measure this
Sunday, just over a week early, in around six prefectures, the reports said.
The greater Tokyo area will stay under the measure as the pace of decline
in new infections has slowed, the reports said.
Several prefectures have requested the state of emergency be lifted and the
government will present a plan to do so before making a formal decision, top
government spokesman Katsunobu Kato told reporters.
A formal announcement is expected later Friday with the measure ending
Sunday.
Japan’s virus measures have been less strict than in other places,
emphasising mask-wearing and ventilation over tough lockdowns.
Earlier this month, parliament passed a new law adding enforcement measures
including fines for businesses that do not close early. The new law took
effect 10 days later.
Despite the recent spike, Japan has seen a comparatively small Covid-19
outbreak, with just over 7,700 deaths.
Japan launched its coronavirus vaccination programme last week and has so
far given first doses to around 22,000 healthcare workers.
Tokyo’s response to the virus is being closely watched around the world as
doubts swirl over the postponed Tokyo Olympics, due to start July 23.
Organisers have outlined measures they say will keep the Games safe even
without requiring participants to be vaccinated or quarantined on arrival.
BSS/AFP/GMR/1222 hrs