Covid-19 coronavirus cases have been on the rise again in Tokyo lately, with over 100 new cases reported for five consecutive days so far. However, Japan has no plans to declare another state of emergency as the government continues to move ahead with easing restrictions. According to a report on NHK, the next step on the agenda is to increase the maximum number of attendees allowed at large indoor events from 1,000 to 5,000 people.
Kyodo News reports that the decision to ease event restrictions was based on an assessment made by the government’s new coronavirus expert panel. The increase in audience number is allowed provided that event organisers can ensure thorough safety measures are taken and that the venue does not exceed 50 percent capacity. Economic revitalisation minister Yasutoshi Nishimura emphasised that most of the new cases in Tokyo are young people with minimal symptoms, while coronavirus testing is now more widely available and capacity in the medical system is high.
The change, which goes into effect on Friday July 10, will include gatherings and large indoor events such as concerts and sports. As reported by The Mainichi, Japan’s professional soccer and baseball leagues will welcome fans to attend games from July 10, with stadiums allowed to fill up to 50 percent capacity or 5,000 attendees (whichever is smaller) following the new rules.
At the time of writing, there are 6,765 cases in Tokyo and 19,775 cases in Japan.
Get live updates on the Covid-19 coronavirus situation in Tokyo and Japan here.
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