#15,175
Compared to the much of the rest of the world - Hong Kong (n=915), Singapore (n=1,309), Taiwan (n=373) . . . and to a lesser extent Japan (n=3,654) - all of which saw early imported cases, have managed to hold the line against sustained community spread of COVID-19.
While all four are seeing rising daily numbers the past few weeks, Japan - particularly in Tokyo, Osaka, and several other large metropolitan areas - is reporting the fastest growth.Japan's media this morning is reporting that Prime Minister Abe will declare a state of emergency in parts of Japan, as soon as tomorrow (April 7th). The declaration is expected to be less draconian than some we've seen issued by other countries, but it will give additional powers to local governments.
Local governments may request that people in the affected areas stay home excerpt for essential needs, that businesses conduct disinfection procedures, and that some schools, daycare centers, movie theatres, and other public venues close.The concern is that if community spread is not controlled, it could lead to swamped hospitals and a badly overwhelmed healthcare delivery system.
You can read full details in the follow English language report from the Japan Times.
Abe to declare state of emergency over COVID-19 covering Tokyo, Osaka and five other prefectures
BY SATOSHI SUGIYAMA AND ERIC JOHNSTON
APR 6, 2020 After weeks long pressure from public health officials and lawmakers, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Monday the government would declare a state of emergency as soon as Tuesday covering Tokyo, Osaka and five other prefectures amid the growing outbreak of COVID-19, in a step that will empower prefectures to take restrictive measures.
(Continue . . . )
