national

Abe declares state of emergency until May 6 for Tokyo, 6 prefectures

86 Comments

The requested article has expired, and is no longer available. Any related articles, and user comments are shown below.

© AFP/Thomson Reuters 2020.

©2024 GPlusMedia Inc.

86 Comments
Login to comment

“With no penalties for ignoring the requests in most cases, enforcement will rely more on peer pressure and respect for authority.”

Ughhhhhh.

18 ( +25 / -7 )

Why panic buy instant ramen? If the virus don’t get you malnutrition will.

32 ( +36 / -4 )

Happily I don't see that idiotic panic buying of large quantities of toilet paper as in many western nations.

-19 ( +13 / -32 )

State of Emergency = no change; business as unsual

20 ( +29 / -9 )

No where in the article does it state what it means for the restrictions in the daily lives of us citizens - only what the implications are for the economy.

We now know the true priorities of the government!

15 ( +21 / -6 )

Happily I don't see that idiotic panic buying of large quantities of toilet paper as in many western nations.

Well maybe you need very good glasses.

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/905/

10 ( +15 / -5 )

The industry associations, including the Japan Frozen Food Association, Japan-Pasta Association and Japan Dairy Association, all say that normal production is continuing and inventories are sufficient.

Japan Dairy Association. Many other countries have similar organisations. But Japan Fozen Food Association and Japan Pasta Association? I want to know more about these 2 interesting associations. Especially the later one.

8 ( +10 / -2 )

Where are all the deaths? There is a lot that is not being explained.

6 ( +13 / -7 )

I noticed a lot of car showrooms closed in Hyogo today.Apart from that it was business as usual!

4 ( +4 / -0 )

@LudditeToday  06:13 pm JST

Why panic buy instant ramen? If the virus don’t get you malnutrition will.

Plus the huge amount of sodium in those sodium bombs.

12 ( +14 / -2 )

Happily I don't see that idiotic panic buying of large quantities of toilet paper as in many western nations.

The shelves are bare at the supers, drugstores, etc. near my house. Perhaps in more salubrious areas people do not panic buy toilet paper...

10 ( +12 / -2 )

As long as I can still go to work, I'm good with all this.

0 ( +9 / -9 )

I was in an Aeon department store today, they had signs up asking people to respect social distancing, and there were taped markings on the floor where you queue for the till. Very good.

18 ( +19 / -1 )

His cabinet will also finalize the stimulus package worth 108 trillion yen

The construction industry and Amakuari gravy train is going to be very well taken care of. That won't be a pledge or urge either, it's 100% guaranteed...

17 ( +17 / -0 )

It is quite clear than 99% of posters think that we should be in lockdown.

can anyone tell me why we aren’t seeing New York style numbers as of yet?

-7 ( +6 / -13 )

@Lamilly... Surely those who live will be thankful for that alone, no matter their savings... and would feel terrible if their actions contributed to the deaths of others.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

We aren’t seeing NY numbers yet, but may soon. Only 30% of infections can be traced.

8 ( +9 / -1 )

Watching Lord Abe talking of dispensing his planned largesse yet he hasn’t said a word about testing people even though he is telling us that Avigan will be available...

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Ozellis

Where are all the deaths? There is a lot that is not being explained.

More than One hundred thousand die from pneumonia each year in Japan. Presently, the deaths stated as from covid are those that were tested before they died. The untested are all classified as normal pneumonia. With no data on the present death rate from pneumonia and none to be expected this year it is impossible to tell whether there is a surge in pneumonia deaths.

Funeral homes are not taking chances with infections and cremating all pneumonia death without allowing family pay their last respect.

8 ( +10 / -2 )

""No Need To Panic"" is the wrong sentence , How about "Stop Being Selfish".

1 ( +3 / -2 )

can anyone tell me why we aren’t seeing New York style numbers as of yet?

Doing a lockdown is a precaution. In case you do not know what it is I Google it for you. No need to thank me.

precaution

/prɪˈkɔːʃ(ə)n/

noun

a measure taken in advance to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant, or inconvenient from happening.

"he had taken the precaution of seeking legal advice"

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

It completely depends on citizen how they sincerely follow government & local authority instructions. All must respect emergency.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

It's good they've made the announcement formal. It's as far as the law allows them to go here.

We've already seen companies and Boards of Education have no respect for the health of their citizens; now we see if they at least have respect for the Governments wishes.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

I have hoarded over the years slowly and continuously for the big one...you know...the giant earthquake which will happen. I am a bit jihesho so date things and rotate them. I am just hoping I am home at the event so I can use what we have hoarded. And yeah, got 12 full packs of toilet paper thingies. 12 x 9

By the way, the PM was correct in stating that he cannot force people to lock down. It is against human rights strict laws in Japan. This is the most free place in the world.

You can have your voice erased, but they cannot lock you up for voicing your opinion. I am at the beach again tomorrow, but skipping Shibuya. Saw the beauty of it empty today.

Surfs up kids, work hard, take care of your family, eat well and exercise.

-4 ( +4 / -8 )

So, we aren't supposed to panic buy and hoard, but many stores are closing temporarily or are at reduced hours.

Which is it? I need stuff when I need stuff, not necessarily when stores decide to stay open.

Don't buy into the panic.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

CitizenSmithToday 07:37 pm JST

I’d rather risk catching the virus than risk not being able to buy food and pay the rent.

It's not about the risk to you. It's about the risk to the people you will spread Covid19 to and the people they will spread it to.

Why can't people understand this?

8 ( +12 / -4 )

The industry associations, including the Japan Frozen Food Association, Japan-Pasta Association and Japan Dairy Association, all say that normal production is continuing and inventories are sufficient.

Japan Dairy Association. Many other countries have similar organisations. But Japan Fozen Food Association and Japan Pasta Association? I want to know more about these 2 interesting associations. Especially the later one.

Japan Fozen Food Association

https://www.reishokukyo.or.jp

Japan Pasta Association

https://www.pasta.or.jp

Too bad they both do not have an English web site. However, since I can read Kanji I kinda know what they do. The frozen food association's web site looks like a business web site and boring. However, the pasta association's web site looks very colourful and interesting.

-3 ( +2 / -5 )

As I stated in a previous post, my company said business as usual, 9 to 5:30. Ride the trains come to work! Only in Japan!!

12 ( +13 / -1 )

That exceeds the 11% of U.S. output for the stimulus package laid out by President Donald Trump and 5% of output for Germany's package.

The vast majority of the populace won't feel any relief from the package. I don't understand how they can lie with a straight face that it surpasses that of, of my head, the U.S, England, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, France.

Most small and medium sized businesses won't be taking loans even if it is without interest as there is little prospect for business picking up sooner.

The package needs to be put under a microscope and scrutinised.

10 ( +10 / -0 )

Too little, too late. May 6 is a meaningless date if the virus is not contained, and nobody can be certain. The Reiwa Pandemic may enter the history books as Abe's tragic final legacy.

-1 ( +3 / -4 )

@Omachi

We aren’t seeing NY numbers yet, but may soon. Only 30% of infections can be traced.

i thought it was 80-90%. I’m happy to be wrong though.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Whoops my bad I read 80-90% can’t be traced. Need to wear my spec, sorry.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

If there is good weather during Golden Week, which ends on 6th May, many people will be travelling to amusement parks and onsens.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Happily I don't see that idiotic panic buying of large quantities of toilet paper as in many western nations.

Thats because everyone’s house has been stuffed with toilet paper, paper towels and tissues for weeks now!

Look our for news articles of people suffocating on tissue dust!

1 ( +4 / -3 )

Any idea why Aichi/Nagoya isn't included

3 ( +6 / -3 )

I

m off to the sauna tomorrow- no virus can survive that!

-3 ( +2 / -5 )

I live in Fukuoka and I saw so many Chinese guys from China (incl. HK, Macao) and it could be an epicenter of this Covid-19. The governor of Fukuoka requested to Abe to Fukuoka be included one of the 6 prefectures of state of emergency I acknoledge w I work in business service and many of them were Chinese customers. A reason I can say could be epicenter 'til now. I prevent myself what would be this pandemic carefully to find unscathed this 1 week-deadly-virus. I'm probably immune the virus from 2 weeks passed since that rush of free-entry from the continent. My experience of this half a month caused me fear.

-7 ( +1 / -8 )

Oops, I acknoledge why governor requested.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

Unbelievable fake news, telling people there is plenty of food, yet and picture above is proof all the favorite noodles are empty and no stock like masks until whenever. Yeah keep the fake news telling us not to panic buy because there is plenty. Already I spent 2 hrs looking for favorite noodles and everyone is sold out. Thanks for nothing. What a waste of time on this administration and this ridiculous statement that has no teeth.

-7 ( +2 / -9 )

buchailldana Aichi prefecture was decreasing 'til now, Fukuoka is still increasing.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

THAT'S ALL ???. THE BOMB has not yet arrived.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

spinningplatesToday  08:18 pm JST

CitizenSmithToday 07:37 pm JST

I’d rather risk catching the virus than risk not being able to buy food and pay the rent.

It's not about the risk to you. It's about the risk to the people you will spread Covid19 to and the people they will spread it to.

Why can't people understand this?

Completely agree.

Those who keep downplaying the spread of the virus etc don't seem to understand that it's not about "me me me".

If you were infected and lucky enough to be asymptomatic, you could spread it to five others. Those five could then spread to another five each. And all of them could spread it to their families. Granted, some will be fine, but others may not be so lucky. I do not want to be responsible in spreading the virus to someone who is compromised, and if they die from it, their death is partly, maybe even wholly, my resposibility.

If it reaches the point of a massive outbreak in Japan (touch wood), the health care system would not be able to handle it. The whole point of social distancing, being responsible, and staying home (if you can), is so we don't overwhelm the hospitals, doctors, and nurses.

Sure, Japan has not reached the level of Italy or the USA in terms of confirmed cases/deaths, but why do people think we have to reach that level before we DO SOMETHING about it? Putting it into a 'Prevention vs Reaction' situation, I'd rather try and prevent it getting really bad, rather than saying, "Oh oops. Should have stayed home instead".

Don't be selfish. Stay home if you can.

If you cannot stay home, then be cautious, stay safe, protect yourself and protect others.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

In Japan, if the death toll reaches to 1,000, it will become significant problem. We must avoid such situation by keeping the certain rules.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

Jeffiner: I really understand what you mean. From my experience of my comment before you, I'd like to find how to check-up myself. Check my comment why I feel it.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Isolate the elderly, who are the most affected. And let the virus pass through everyone else with a healthy immune system to induce herd immunity. That way they can’t pass it to the elderly

But that’s not what the hidden hands want, this is all about the economy

-2 ( +4 / -6 )

Mr. Noidall: That sate of emergency means the recompense items the govt. had to promise to citizen. Not of what everybody knows.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Ok, the long awaited emergency has been declared, massive relief package drawn next in the arsenal to fight this virus is massive PCR testing. Ramp up the testing.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

Jennifer

First, thanks for taking the time to write such lengthy comments but I think you are wasting your time. I wrote the following yesterday:

onedragon

We will always lose a few people with weak or distressed immune systems. 

How old are your parents? I dare you to tell them face to face that it is OK for you elderlies to die so our precious lives will not be disturbed. If they are already dead they must be reeling in their graves.

By the way, one day you will get old, too. How will you feel if the younger people tell you that we care more about money than you.

4 ( +17 / -13 )

At least thumb up is still more than down but I still got 13 thumb down so I have little hope in humanity now.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

Everyone would like to criticize someone because of easing their frustration in this situation.

As usual, CNN, NYT and the other foreign media also criticized that the Japanese government's actions were too late, however, I would like them to watch their terrible situation carefully.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

So, abruptly closing schools back in late Feb served absolutely no purpose at all. You are tad too late Abe.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

If what Abe said is true, then everything he said didn't need to be said because nothing changed.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

I have a reason to be here to have my comments here. I live in Fukuoka, so many people from the continent (omit to say what countries/region) but why I mentioned previously my comments here is because the governor said to include Fukuoka in this state emergency to Abe. It means Japan was thinking the whole time about the Olympic games and there're no virus check-ups 'til the end of March when Tokyo 2020 found postponed to next year... All of that means no check-ups all this time. The governor didn't mention it, but I really want to express that Fukuoka need check-up for every citizen. I'll be safe and more people will be safe if found early the carrier of no symptom. Uff!

2 ( +3 / -1 )

""Although a state of emergency is declared, it won't mean a city lockdown as seen overseas," Abe said, pledging public transport would run as normal and roads would not be blocked."

Oh, that's right! The virus only transmits to other people easily in SOCIAL situations, not on major transportation the government has invested in. I mean, surely the virus cooperates and doesn't work during rush hours. That would be regrettable!

Japan is going to be where the US is in about 2 weeks, given that the state of emergency is voluntary and they refuse to actually lock things down. In that time, that government may well have to lock down like other cities overseas, and meanwhile thousands may have died, just as many are now because the government didn't act sooner and was prioritizing the Olympics. What's the difference between a crowded party and a crowded train when it comes to Covid-19? Nothing. The virus doesn't care why you are crowding where you are, only that you are. It's true, people need to work, but they could die, and they could spread it to others who may also die... and you can't work then, can you?

3 ( +6 / -3 )

Mr. NoidallToday  09:58 pm JST

At least thumb up is still more than down

And that's the most important thing. 

I don't know how I'd go on if I got more downs than ups.

It's not as bad as you might think. You take some pride in it after a while.

Such is my lot on JT... :-)

And on topic, my wife reckons Nagoya escapes the state of emergency thanks to pressure from Toyota. I just hope it works and the number start falling over the next couple of weeks. We should be thankful that weren't in lockdown - seems like Abe & Co are taking the Swedish route for now.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

This is very strange! There is nothing in this article that states what sort of restrictions a state of emergency brings. It does state that contacts have to be reduced by 70-80%. How is this supposed to happen. It also states that all public transport and roads will be running as normal. Japan has a chance to nip this virus in the butt due to having relatively low numbers of cases 'at present'. However, this will change very quickly unless public venues are closed and strict social distancing stood by. This is one case where the passive approach will backfire with disastrous results.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

In my opinion we are being asked a simple question and there are three groups

With the mortality rate for know infections around 1% and the actual risk is of course lower as you may never be infected but for simplicity

Group 1: do I agree with staying home, keeping my kids from going to school and damaging the economy on the 1% chance by continuing my daily life I may directly of in directly kill someone.

Group 2: do I agree with staying home,keeping my kids from going to school, damage the economy and my local bar, gym, swimming club etc goes bankrupt or in serious debt on the 1% chance by continuing my daily life I may directly of in directly kill someone.

Group 3: do I agree with staying home,keeping my kids from going to school, damage the economy and my local bar, gym, swimming club etc goes bankrupt or in serious debt and I lose my job/my business goes under on the 1% chance by continuing my daily life I may directly of in directly kill someone

Personally I am in group 3 so maybe I am cold hearted but sorry I would have prefered for this declaration not to have happened.

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

Japan is going to be where the US is in about 2 weeks, given that the state of emergency is voluntary and they refuse to actually lock things down. In that time, that government may well have to lock down like other cities overseas, and meanwhile thousands may have died, just as many are now because the government didn't act sooner and was prioritizing the Olympics. What's the difference between a crowded party and a crowded train when it comes to Covid-19? Nothing. The virus doesn't care why you are crowding where you are, only that you are. It's true, people need to work, but they could die, and they could spread it to others who may also die... and you can't work then, can you?

Bingo!

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

If you drive a car, fly, use electricity, buy goods made in 3rd world countries, trade stocks, wear gold or diamonds, smoke, have taken illegal drugs.

All of these actions be it from pollution, rising oceans, poverty, sweatshops etc indirectly endanger people and cost a similar if not larger number of lives.

If you are willing to give up and risk so much just in case you might endanger another than power to you.

When the truth for most is however much people say otherwise they are primarily afraid for themselves even though survival rate is 99%

Thats why they want action like those seen today.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

smithinjapan

You know very well that Abe cannot apply the same restrictive laws as in other countries. The constitution categorically prevents this. 

And in the event that in two weeks the government tries to tighten the emergency law. This could reach levels of unconstitutionality. This would lead to strong legal action by civil rights organizations. That could lead to Abe and his government. In front of a judge. That is why he has been very cautious about declaring a state of emergency.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

@ carpslidy...

First, I apologize for comments I made in response to some of your posts a few days ago.

It's very difficult to judge your tone, because your posts seem to be all over the place.

Take care of your own, and those around you.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Disillusioned

Japan has a chance to nip this virus in the butt due to having relatively low numbers of cases 'at present'. 

Surprised that you believe Japan has a low number of cases.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Again today Abe, and only Abe, is wearing his "bikini mask!" What's up with that??

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

Pay my mortage my other out goings , my business expenses, running costs, staffs commissions, pension, investments , sons university fees, compensation for stress, lack of freedom, the fact you screwed it all up and then I might settle down. Until then I will not be quiet or comply like the sheep.

Sorry but the abe govt and the other morons screwed it up by letting infested people in to wander and spread it amongst innocents knowingly , they should be charged with human endangerment, and murder in the cases of those who lose their lives because of their stupid decisions.

It is a cluster fail by , feeble minded people who should not be in the positions they are in.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Coming out of a 10 year self-imposed ban from posting here.

Because this is life and death.

Some of the commenters above still believe the virus only affects elderly or people with pre-existing conditions. Antibody tests in Italy have shown it's more widespread than believed, and that a significant number of infected people have no symptoms. But on the other hand of the spectrum, a number of people with healthy immune systems will have cytokine storm and die. The larger the population, the larger the number. So the mindset that it's OK to get this is dangerous because:

1) you're not invincible, and more important

2) you're going to spread to a lot of people, who will spread it and people will surely die because you didn't take the right precautions.

It's an airborne respiratory illness that spreads through the droplets dispensed when we breathe and talk. Without antibody testing, we don't know the true prevalence and the true R naught.

All we can do is assume we are carriers and take every possible precaution to avoid transmitting to others.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

I think and I believe that Japan already won the battle against virus by delaying the spreading 4 months. As long as other nations are still struggling with pandemic, no one is safe. Proactive approach is good.

-3 ( +0 / -3 )

@spinning plates

Thank you.

No need to apologize its a discussion.

Just to clear up any confusion.

I have come to see that this virus is more dangerous than the flu and its best to take sensible precautionary measure.

That said I think people are unrationally fueled by fear as a result of the media and politicians overstating and overreacting.

And the actual downsides lose of freedoms, economic pain and mental stress of these drastic measures are far greater than the virus itself. Personaly I and friends are suffering great financial loss and my children and their friends are showing worrying levels of stress, anxiety and depression.

Finally I believe politicians are only responding to the public not leading them in a rational manner.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

As of last week, Aichi-ken had the second highest number of identified cases of infection. Why are Nagoya and Osaka, as well, not on the list? Stupid.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Pay my mortage my other out goings , my business expenses, running costs, staffs commissions, pension, investments , sons university fees,

well go ahead keep making that money and roll the dice, if your in a higher age bracket and catch the virus then you have a much higher chance of dying from the virus. be difficult to pay for your sons Uni fees of your dead, worse still you could be asymptomatic and spread it to a member of your family who then dies.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

 Why are Nagoya and Osaka, as well, not on the list? Stupid.

Seven regions are covered by the month-long declaration: Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa, Saitama, Osaka, Hyogo and Fukuoka prefectures.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

To explain to some of you who don’t understand why they don’t make these restrictions legally binding, rather they just ask for the people to do these certain things without legal consequences, I can explain it for you. There is a deep respect for authority in Japanese society, and in Asian culture in general. So to a large extent, they don’t NEED To make a lot of these things legally binding for the vast majority of people to follow them.

I mean, people crossing the street is an excellent example. And I was in Japan myself a few months ago, and I saw that people didn’t cross at a red light, even when there were no cars around. That’s what I’m talking about.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

JCosplayToday 05:29 am JST

To explain to some of you who don’t understand why they don’t make these restrictions legally binding.

As in many other nations with similar 'lockdowns' there is a mixture of historical psychological reasons (in remembrance to war times and not being allowed to move freely) and legal reasons.

There is a strong group authority in Japan for sure, but I'm almost certain more stricter procedures (with legal penalties) will follow in Japan within a week or 2 (similar was done in many EU nations.)

So the Japanese government will build up stricter regulations step by step as is (was) done in many other nations.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Last night, walking around the neighborhood where I was born, many restaurants were quite full... restaurants that don't need to be open, restaurants that make alot of money. They should be closed. I sense greed.

And the neverending supply of ojisan and obasan sat gorging themselves at counters, no social distancing in place. Just filling their greedy faces.

I feel that as a whole nation, Japan has handled this situation appallingly.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

I feel that as a whole nation, Japan has handled this situation appallingly.

But Japan's coronavirus numbers, per capita, are far better than any other industrialized country. And the economy is working perhaps more than in other countries.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

ozellis

It is quite clear than 99% of posters think that we should be in lockdown.

can anyone tell me why we aren’t seeing New York style numbers as of yet?

Perhaps, this is part of the explanation: https://www.euronews.com/2020/04/06/has-the-key-to-a-coronoavirus-vaccine-been-staring-us-in-the-face-for-a-century

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

The UK warned the elderly about leaving their homes yet not a word of that in Japan.

Many care home patients have been infected by workers.Cross infections at hospitals too.

Could it be that the policy is to allow the elderly to become sick?

I hope that doesn’t sound like a conspiracy theory...

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Login to leave a comment

Facebook users

Use your Facebook account to login or register with JapanToday. By doing so, you will also receive an email inviting you to receive our news alerts.

Facebook Connect

Login with your JapanToday account

User registration

Articles, Offers & Useful Resources

A mix of what's trending on our other sites