Tokyo To Boost Virus Test Capacity To 60,000 A Day
NHK has learned that the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is planning a six-fold increase in coronavirus testing capacity, in anticipation of a simultaneous outbreak of seasonal influenza.
Tokyo currently has a testing capacity of 10,200 per day. However, experts have warned that the capital should prepare for another wave of coronavirus infections.
Tokyo officials told NHK that they are making final arrangements to drastically expand capacity to around 60,000 tests a day.
The figure includes PCR tests and those carried out with antigen kits.
The officials say they will also work with medical institutions to ensure that an expanded testing regime will be ready by the end of the year.
As of Sunday, only four influenza patients had been confirmed this season in Tokyo. Influenza outbreaks usually begin in December.
