On Thursday, Japan’s government declared a new virus state of emergency. It would last throughout the Olympics, amid concerns that organizers may restrict fans from almost all events.
With only two weeks until the opening ceremony, Covid infections are on the surge in the capital. Officials are concerned about the spread of the more infectious Delta variant.
The growing number of cases risks derailing plans to allow up to 10,000 local spectators inside Olympic sites. This would potentially make Tokyo 2020 the first Olympics ever held behind closed doors.
Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced that the emergency measures, which are less severe than other regions will last until August 22. But, according to Suga, the government could withdraw the emergency sooner if “the effect of vaccines becomes obvious and the condition of hospital beds improves.”
Earlier in the day, Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japan’s minister in charge of virus response, warned that new Covid-19 cases were on the rise in the capital.
As the number of people traveling throughout the world grows, the more infectious Delta type now accounts for roughly 30% of infections. “This is expected to grow even more,” he continued.
Under the virus emergency, alcohol will be prohibited in bars and restaurants. They must close by 8 p.m., according to Nishimura. Concerts and conferences, for instance, must end by 9 p.m. Furthermore, the number of spectators at events will be limited to 5,000 people or 50% of the venue capacity, whichever is less.
The decision puts pressure on Olympic organizers. They are hurrying to make a final decision on how many. Local fans would be in the stands during the Games.
To make the crucial decision, Tokyo 2020 organizers are likely to meet with local and national government officials. The International Olympic and Paralympic Committees will also have a meeting on Thursday for a final decision.
While Japan has seen a minor virus outbreak so far. It has 14,900 deaths avoiding severe lockdowns. Its vaccine programme has moved at a steady pace.
So far, just over 15% of the population is properly vaccinated. There are concerns that the Delta variety will trigger a new wave, quickly overloading local medical facilities.
Overseas fans have already been barred from the Olympics. Organizers recently announced that local spectators will be limited to 10,000 people or 50% of the venue capacity.
Ticketholders for oversubscribed events were supposed to know if they would still have seats after a lottery to minimize the crowds on Tuesday.
However, as a result of the ongoing wrangling over the matter, results have been postponed until Saturday.
IOC President Thomas Bach arrived in Tokyo on Thursday afternoon and will be under quarantine for three days. He will be allowed to travel after this period. Olympic athletes will not be subjected to a full 14-day quarantine. But will be limited to restrictions during their tenure in Japan. Athletes are restricted to venues and the Olympic Village and tested for the virus regularly.
