Japan decided on Friday against lifting the coronavirus state of emergency this week ahead of the March 7 end date.

Earlier, Japan declared a state of emergency for the second time in Tokyo and adjacent Kanagawa, Chiba and Saitama on Jan. 7, expanding it to Tochigi, Gifu, Aichi, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo and Fukuoka on Jan. 13. The Japan government forgoed lifting coronavirus emergency this week. The government made the decision as it continues to weigh the risk of a resurgence of infections alongside the need to restart economic activity, which has stalled under its call for people to refrain from unnecessary outings and for restaurants and bars to close early.

Earlier, there was the news that the state of emergency could be lifted in some regions even before March 7 and several prefectures, including Aichi and Gifu, had been under consideration for an early exit. Meanwhile, coronavirus is wreaking havoc in Japan. The total number of coronavirus cases reported in Japan is 412,124, while the death toll stands at 6,800, according to the Johns Hopkins University. 

Also Read: 

Russia reports 15,089 corona cases in last 24 hours

Russia's Sputnik V vaccine authorised in 26 countries: RDIF

Club World Cup: Bayern Munich lift title after beating Mexico's Tigres 1-0 in final