Prime Minister Abe declares emergency for Tokyo, Osaka, Saitama, Kanagawa, Chiba, Hyogo and Fukuoka Prefectures

Prime Minister Abe has declared an emergency for Tokyo, Osaka, Saitama, Kanagawa, Chiba, Hyogo and Fukuoka Prefectures which will become effective today and will last through May 6th, the end of the Golden Week holiday.

Abe asks people to cut back with interactions by 70-80%.  Abe warned that if the rate of infection continues in Tokyo, the number of patients will go from 10,000 in two weeks to 80,000 in one month.

Abe also requests for people to avoid crowded places, practice social distancing and wear a mask.

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko requested for people to isolate themselves until May 6, starting at midnight Tuesday.  Koike said, “Stay home.  I’ve said it many times now.  We must take necessary action to protect our own lives, the lives of our family and our loved ones around us”.

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