Three Prefectures To Enter COVID Measures As Cases Spike

Prime Minsiter Fumio Kishida has announced that three Japanese prefectures (Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Yamaguchi) will enter stricter COVID measures from 9-31 January as a result of rising caseloads in these regions.

• The decision marks the first re-imposition of COVID restrictions in Japan since the removal of previous rules in September 2021.
• The cause of the outbreak of Omicron cases in the regions has caused some controversy, with many laying the blame for the outbreak at the feet of US armed forces personnel stationed in these areas. US Forces Japan has stated that in response it will enact stricter measures, including the wearing of masks off base and enhanced testing. "The mitigation measures we have instituted...are intended to protect our force's readiness, the well-being of our families, and the health of Japan's citizens," the force said in a statement."We recognise we all have a part to play in keeping our communities safe."
• PM Kishida has seen his popularity rise in recent months as the gov't has dealt effectively with the pandemic, with the Omicron wave hitting Europe, Australasia, and North America (so far) not breaking in Japan.