Japan To Extend Covid - 19 State Of Emergency
Japan's government is set to extend the state of emergency in Tokyo, Osaka and eight other prefectures as public health officials try to get a handle on the coronavirus situation.
The measure will now remain in place in those areas until March 7.
Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide said on Tuesday, "The number of new cases is falling. I think that measures targeted at eating and drinking have been effective."
The current state of emergency covers Tokyo and 10 other prefectures. It's due to expire on February 7.
The only place it will be lifted is Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo.
In the other areas, bars and restaurants will still be asked to shorten their business hours. Residents will be asked to refrain from non-essential outings.
Government officials say they may lift the state of emergency earlier in a given region if the situation improves.
After meeting with an advisory panel, they will take it up at a Diet committee meeting.
The formal decision will come later on Tuesday, at a government taskforce meeting. Suga will then hold a news conference to outline the reasons for the extension.