Japan’s ongoing state of emergency has been extended from September 12 till the end of this month.
The new extension comes into force today, affecting 19 prefectures. The other prefectures will implement quasi-emergency measures, which will remain until September 30.
During this period, the government has urged residents to refrain from travel across prefectures, especially during the two national holidays next week – Respect for the Aged Day on September 20 and Autumnal Equinox Day on September 23.
According to economic revitalisation minister Nishimura Yasutoshi, who leads the country’s coronavirus response, more than 50 per cent of Japan’s population has been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
