COVID-19: Japan PM Shinzo Abe says medical system under pressure

Japan's Prime Minister on Friday said the country has yet to reach its target reductions in social interactions to slow the increase in new COVID-19 infections in an effort to stop the virus from overwhelming the health care systems.

Less than two weeks after Japan declared a state of emergency for Tokyo and six other prefectures, Shinzo Abe told reporters on Friday that Tokyo has reached a reduction of social interactions of around 60 percent, and Osaka around 70 percent.

However, these levels fall below what experts deem as necessary to flatten the curve of new infections, according to authorities.

Abe urged people to stay at home, saying that ''from the medical field, we are hearing cries of desperation''.

Abe on Thursday expanded an ongoing state of emergency to all of Japan from just Tokyo and other urban areas as the virus continued to spread.

Japan has confirmed more than 9,000 coronavirus cases and 190 deaths.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and could lead to death.

Image Credits: AP