Japan extends state of emergency amid fears over second wave
by Justin McCurry in Tokyo from on (#530PD)
Shinzo Abe says lockdown measures will remain in place in all regions until 31 May
Japan's prime minister, Shinzo Abe, has extended the country's state emergency until the end of the month, amid warnings that relaxing physical distancing advice too soon could flood already crowded hospitals with coronavirus patients.
Abe declared a month-long state of emergency in Tokyo and six other prefectures on 7 April, enabling local governors to request that people avoid unnecessary trips outside and that non-essential businesses close.
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