Japan To Declare Emergency For 4 Prefectures
Some parts of Japan are preparing to enter their third state of emergency of the pandemic. The measure is expected to take effect in Tokyo, Osaka, Hyogo, and Kyoto prefectures this weekend.
The minister in charge of the coronavirus response has been speaking to lawmakers in the Diet about the move.
Economic Revitalization Minister Nishimura Yasutoshi said, "We have decided to take stricter measures ahead of the week-long spring holiday to contain the spread of the virus."
The measure will start on Sunday and last until May 11. A government advisory panel approved the plan on Friday morning. The government is expected to make a formal decision at a task force meeting later on Friday.
Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide will then hold a news conference to outline the details.
The government will ask bars and restaurants that serve alcohol or offer karaoke to close in the affected prefectures.
Subway and bus services will be reduced, with shorter operating hours.
Osaka Prefecture is the largest hot spot. Its daily tally has exceeded 1,000 for four days in a row.
And in Tokyo, the governor told reporters on Friday that while strict measures will put more of a burden on everyone, they're necessary.
Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko said, "If each one of us can start taking stricter measures today, the situation will get better in 10 days to two weeks."
Officials reported 759 new cases in the capital on Friday. This is the first time in nearly three months that the daily tally in the capital has exceeded 700 on a Friday.