The government of Japan is planning to impose social restrictions in Tokyo and some other regions as the new variant of coronavirus, Omicron, infections surge nationwide.

Notably, the country has never imposed a lockdown during the outbreak and has instead focused on asking bars and restaurants to close early. The crowds are said to be back in many parts of Japan, with people closing the store and canceling events as the cases of COVID-19 rise.

As per credible sources, the order is yet to be finalized and will be effective in Tokyo and nine other regions, including Aichi, Chiba, Kumamoto, and Kanagawa.

Earlier this month, the order was issued for Yamaguchi, Okinawa, and Hiroshima regions. The other regions that might witness a rise in infections could be added later.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, mentioned that the infection is rising unexpectedly, which might result in the hospital system being questioned across the country.

He further notified that an additional action might be needed if the number of infections continue to rise and the people need to get isolated or undergo hospitalization.

According to official sources, around 80% of the population of Japan have received two vaccine jabs, while only 1% have received the booster. The government is planning to speed up the boosters, but most people won’t be getting them until after March or later, as per the current schedule.

The third dose is suggested against Omicron especially, which is causing more infections than the earlier variants.

Furthermore, earlier this week, 20,000 new cases were reported nationwide, demonstrating that the cases are increasing significantly due to Omicron. Industry experts suggest that the case tally is undercounted as testing is not extensive. Around 134,000 people are now isolated or are in hospital for COVID-19.

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