People in Tokyo urged to stay home over weekend

Jul 22, 2020 | News On Japan

Jul 22, 2020 (NHK) - The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is urging people to stay home over the holiday weekend starting on Thursday.

The capital remains on the highest level of alert for the coronavirus, as newly confirmed cases bring its total virus count above 10,000.

Officials met with experts on Wednesday and decided to maintain the alert. Over the past week, an average of more than 230 new cases have been reported each day. Untraceable cases are on the rise.

Experts said transmission is not limited to bars and nightclubs. Homes, workplaces and restaurants are also vulnerable. And cases among the elderly are increasing.

They also said the health care system is under strain.

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko said, "If you go out, please take thorough measures to prevent infection. We are also asking residents to refrain from going out as much as possible."

Koike's call comes as the rest of the country begins a new tourism campaign.

Tokyo reported 238 new cases on Wednesday. That's above 100 for the 14th straight day.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abe Shinzo says he will postpone easing restrictions on large-scale events until the end of August.

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