Japan Expands State Of Emergency Nationwide
The Japanese government is hoping to limit the movement of people -- and the spread of the coronavirus -- during the spring holidays that begin at the end of this month. Many of Japan's biggest cities have been under a state of emergency for more than a week. It has now been expanded nationwide.
The government began by targeting the seven prefectures most endangered by the virus. But with infections on the rise, the central government is now encouraging every area to take stricter measures.
Each governor has the power to ask certain businesses to close and people to stay home as much as possible. But some worry this will not be enough.
A resident of Kanagawa Prefecture said, "I think it's too late. But it's much better than not doing anything."
A resident of Wakayama Prefecture said, "We should exercise more self-restraint. We need to use better judgment to limit our non-essential outings."
The government fears people may become less vigilant when they get time off work.
The spring holidays from late April until early May typically see a spike in cross-country travel.
The healthcare system in major cities is already feeling some strain. And there are fears that rural medical facilities could collapse if there is a sudden increase in the number of serious cases.
Japan's nearly 9,300 coronavirus infections are spread across the country, with the exception of Iwate Prefecture.
The national tally doesn't include 712 cases linked to the Diamond Princess cruise ship. Over 200 died, including 13 from the vessel.
