Japan Prepares for State of Emergency

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is expected to declare a state of emergency in Japan in the coming hours. 

The move comes after Japan reported 252 new cases of the coronavirus and seven more deaths on Monday, bringing the total number of infections to over 4,600, with 91 deaths.

The state of emergency, which is expected to be formally announced at a press conference on Tuesday, will last for approximately one month; however, in the Prime Minister's words, "basic economic activity" will continue, with public transport and supermarkets remaining open.

In addition, he urged the public to exercise social distancing and avoid unnecessary trips.

PM Abe has faced criticism for not activating emergency measures earlier, as experts believe the real number of cases could be higher than the official statistics show. 

By Ana Dumbadze 

Photo: EPA