Abe Extends Japan’s State of Emergency Through May in Bid to Slow Virus

Government may release some areas early if situation improves
Tokyo, Osaka, 11 other prefectures to remain on special alert

Some Asian Countries Plan to Extend Their Lockdowns

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By Sophie Jackman

May 4, 2020 at 7:54 AM UTC

Updated on

May 4, 2020 at 10:38 AM UTC

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Japan extended its nationwide state of emergency until May 31, with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe saying the country’s coronavirus measures need more time to reduce infection rates.