Abe Orders Thorough Measures Against Coronavirus
Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has instructed his ministers to ensure that more hygienic laboratories are able to conduct tests for the new coronavirus. Only one facility in Japan is carrying out such tests at present.
Abe gave the instruction on Friday morning at a meeting of relevant ministers, including health minister Katsunobu Kato and foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi.
Abe ordered thorough measures to block the entry of the virus at quarantine stations in airports and seaports.
The prime minister also said the public should be promptly updated on any new information about the virus.
He stressed that the government will make all-out efforts to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure the safety of Japanese nationals overseas.
He also instructed his ministers to ensure that more hygienic laboratories are able to conduct tests for the virus. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases is the only laboratory in Japan that is currently conducting such tests.
An outbreak of pneumonia likely caused by the new virus is sweeping the Chinese city of Wuhan, and the number of infections is also increasing in other countries. Japan confirmed its second case on Friday.
Abe added that people should not be overly worried. He said they should stay calm and take general precautions to protect themselves.
