On the eve of the Tokyo Olympics, local epidemiologists reported an increase in cases of infection with a new type of coronavirus.
To date, 714 new cases of COVID-19 infection are known in the Japanese capital. This is a record high figure for the past month, media reports.
Until recently, the increase in infected patients barely exceeded 400 patients. Only occasionally did it reach 500 people.
Steady growth has been observed since the middle of last week.
In total, there are about 800 thousand infected and 14.7 thousand dead from COVID-19 in the country.
After the emergency was lifted (June 20), the population level on the streets of Tokyo increased by 18%.
Currently, until July 11, a regime of enhanced measures against the spread of COVID-19 is in effect in Tokyo, which is slightly milder than an emergency, but also does not exclude restrictions.
Thus, the opening hours of public catering and entertainment establishments are limited, and there are restrictions on the sale of alcohol.
The authorities have so far avoided statements regarding the extension of restrictions during the Olympics.
There are three weeks left before it starts. Local agencies do not rule out such a scenario.
If a state of emergency remains in effect during the Games, local spectators may not be allowed to attend.
The Olympics were scheduled to take place from July 24 to August 9, 2020.
Due to the pandemic, it was postponed to July 23 – August 8.
It has already been finally decided that the Games will be held without foreign fans. Facility occupancy will not exceed 50%.
