Although Japan was one of the first countries to bring COVID under control, it had seen a surge in cases in late 2020 – early 2021. It was called ‘the second COVID-19 wave’, and Tokyo and its surrounding areas were brought under a state of emergency.
However, citizens can finally let out a sigh of relief as cases of coronavirus have started to plummet down in Japan. Don’t let down your guard so soon as there are still rules and restrictions to be maintained.
Yoshihide Suga, the Japanese Prime Minister, has just announced that the state of emergency in the Tokyo region will be lifted on 21st March. Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama were the last prefectures under restrictions.
This decision has been taken as Tokyo’s COVID-19 cases have lowered to a manageable extent ever since the state of emergency was implemented in early January. The strain on hospitals has eased, and the virus seems to be under control again.
Yoshihide Suga has shown an active interest in replenishing the COVID-stricken economy. He also wants to step-up with the preparations for the summer Tokyo Olympics!
Although the Olympics have been mentioned, it is too soon to be happy about it as cases might resurge yet again. People are advised to continue wearing masks, wash hands at appropriate intervals and refrain from being in crowded places as much as possible.
Even if the Olympics are held, it is likely that no overseas spectators will be allowed in the arena. There will also be many more restrictions to ensure the safety of the participants and the organizers.
Although the state of emergency was supposed to be lifted on 7th February, there was a sudden rise in COVID cases that led to two additional extensions.
We are all hoping that the Summer Tokyo Olympics are held as it will serve as a beacon to show that everything will be back on track again.
Source: The Mainichi
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