Apr 05 (Japan Times) - Tokyo residents will be asked to refrain from leaving home but essential services will continue operating should Japan declare a state of emergency due to the novel coronavirus, Gov. Yuriko Koike said.
The guidelines, announced Friday in advance to prevent public confusion, said stores selling such essentials as food and medical supplies, as well as services needed to keep society and the economy running, such as banks, will stay in business even during a state of emergency.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government will ask facilities and event organizers to limit or cease activities to prevent the often deadly virus from spreading further. It also plans to establish a call center to handle inquiries from citizens and businesses.
"I released the draft outline on emergency measures so citizens and businesses can adequately prepare in advance," Koike said at a news conference.
