Society

Japan lifts coronavirus quasi-emergency, eyes more economic activity

Mar 22 (NHK) - The Japanese government plans to gradually ease coronavirus restrictions and promote social and economic activities after lifting quasi-emergency measures for all prefectures on Monday.

The measures were lifted in 18 of the country's 47 prefectures, including Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. This is the first time in more than two months that no prefecture is under a state of quasi-emergency, which allows governors to urge bars and restaurants to close early or stop serving alcohol.

Government officials plan to maintain and bolster the medical system, testing ability and stocks of medicine to prevent another surge in case numbers.

At the same time, officials want to enable people to get back to their normal lives as much as possible. They plan to encourage the use of vaccination passports at eateries and event venues and for traveling.

They have also decided not to restrict close contacts of an infected person from going to work, depending on the situation in the area.

Even if quasi-emergency measures are applied again, events could be held with full capacity if the organizer's plan to reduce infection risks is approved by the local government.

Source: ANNnewsCH

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