Reduce Human Contact by 70-80%
Infections Expected to Decline After 2 Weeks
Proposal to Limit Movement Radius for One Month
Avoid Close, Enclosed, and Crowded Spaces
[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stated at a press conference on the 7th, "The cumulative number of infections in Tokyo has exceeded 1,000," adding, "We are seeing cases where the number of infections doubles every five days." He continued, "If the spread of infection continues at the current rate, it could exceed 10,000 in two weeks and 80,000 in a month."
Prime Minister Abe said, "However, according to expert estimates, if all of us make efforts and reduce opportunities for contact between people by about 70-80%, the increase in infections can peak within two weeks and then begin to decline," and proposed, "Let's reduce our range of activities for one month until May 6, when the Golden Week holiday ends."
He also urged for measures to be devised for this purpose. He requested that office work, except for essential industries, be done from home, and that the number of employees commuting to work be minimized when attendance is absolutely necessary. He also emphasized considering online learning due to prolonged school closures and medical consultations via phone or online.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Abe asked, "If you must go out to purchase essential daily goods, please avoid the three Cs: closed spaces, crowded places, and close-contact settings."
On this day, Prime Minister Abe declared a state of emergency targeting seven metropolitan areas, including Tokyo.
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