Suga urges caution over New Year's break as COVID-19 cases keep rising
Officials say the surge in new infections is already affecting local health care systems and overwhelming hospitals at a time of the year when staffing is limited.
Japan considering penalties for firms that defy closure requests
Prefectural governors are currently only allowed to make nonbinding requests for eating and drinking establishments to shorten business hours.
Politics — not public health — drove Suga U-turn on Go To Travel
The plan to balance the health of the economy against that of people in Japan appeared to hit a wall, as public, political and scientific opposition grew.
Japan may call new state of emergency, virus response chief warns
A government panel of experts on the virus recommended that people not travel to and from areas that have experienced a rapid increase of infections.
Experts are urging the government to strengthen its steps against the deadly virus as infections surge in many parts of the country.
Government suggests extended New Year break to cut COVID-19 risks
During Japan's New Year holiday season, a time for family reunions, train stations and airports typically become overcrowded.
Japan virus team pushes hospital occupancy rates as criteria for emergency declarations
Expert team on fighting the coronavirus recommends monitoring six indicators when determining the need to declare a state of emergency.
Abe says no need for another state of emergency over coronavirus
"The aim is to prevent the spread of infections as much as possible while also keeping social and economic activity going," the prime minister said in Hiroshima.
Japan rejected panel's advice to delay troubled Go To Travel program
The program, which aims to support the tourism industry through subsidized discounts and vouchers, has been plagued by late changes to its scope and implementation.
Japan's new coronavirus panel aims for more clarity and balance
The subcommittee on the novel coronavirus faces the challenge of finding the right balance between protecting health and the economy.
New Japan coronavirus subcommittee aims for fresh start at first meeting
The meeting provided an opportunity for government officials and public health experts to set the record straight on their respective responsibilities.
Japan's medical system overloaded but virus experts see signs of hope
The public update noted that the downtrend in infections is giving hospitals a breather but that personal protective equipment remains lacking.
