Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has declared a state of emergency in Tokyo in view of the increasing cases of coronavirus infection. He said that it will be implemented strictly from Monday, which will continue till August 22. This decision taken as a precautionary measure regarding the Olympics.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, arriving in Tokyo on Thursday, will preside over the meeting here. After arriving in Japan, Thomas will isolate at the IOC's five-star hotel in Tokyo for three days.
According to public broadcaster NHK, "The government decided to declare the fourth state of emergency for Tokyo and communicated the decision to the ruling parties." On the other hand, a senior government official said it was now likely the Olympics would be held behind closed doors. Organizers set a limit last month of 10,000 fans, or half of each venue's capacity, but recently warned that a fully closed-door Games remained an option as the virus situation worsens. Japan has so far reported around 14,800 deaths. The government will meet International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach and Tokyo organizers on July 8 or 9 to discuss the question of spectators.
Japanese medical experts have suggested that banning spectators is a better option to prevent infection. There is concern in Japan that hosting delegations from around the world could exacerbate the outbreak of COVID-19. However, in a decision taken last month, the sale of alcohol in and around Tokyo banned because health officials said drinking alcohol through close contact, speaking loudly and socializing contributes to the spread of the virus.
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