Abe mulls nationwide state of emergency
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Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is considering expanding the declaration of a state of emergency to all 47 prefectures in Japan, up from the current seven including Tokyo.
The state of emergency would be in effect through May 6, the same period as for the prefectures currently affected. The government deemed it was necessary to curb the spread of the disease across the country.
Prior to issuing the nationwide declaration, Abe will consult with an advisory committee of experts on whether it is appropriate to deem that all Japan’s prefectures are in a state of emergency.
The declaration is based on the revised law on special measures to deal with new strains of influenza, and was issued to the initial seven prefectures on April 7.
