City Faces Surge in Infections as Japan Battles Vaccine Delays and Public Concerns
Just two days before the Olympics commence, Tokyo reported 1,832 new COVID-19 cases, marking a six-month high. The city, now under its fourth state of emergency, has extended restrictions to cover the full span of the Games, from July 23 to August 8, with a ban on spectators at venues within Tokyo and strict limitations at a few locations outside the city.
At a recent press conference, Toshio Nakagawa, President of the Japan Medical Association, expressed concern, stating, “What we have worried about is now actually happening.” Nakagawa emphasized that the case surge was anticipated regardless of the Olympics, raising fears of a more explosive spread in coming weeks.
Experts report a notable rise in cases among younger, unvaccinated populations, with many severe cases occurring in those over 50. Japan’s vaccination campaign, which picked up speed in May, has since slowed due to supply uncertainties, leaving only about 23% of the population fully vaccinated—below levels needed to significantly reduce transmission risks.
Japan has recorded around 84,800 infections and over 15,000 deaths since the start of the pandemic, with much of the toll concentrated in the latest wave. On Wednesday, Tokyo’s health experts warned that average daily cases could reach 2,600 in two weeks if the current trend persists, placing further strain on the city’s healthcare infrastructure.
Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s government has faced criticism for prioritizing the Games over health, a sentiment reflected in recent polls showing his approval ratings around 30%. Japan’s top medical adviser, Dr. Shigeru Omi, urged authorities to enforce stricter virus measures, including discouraging out-of-town travel.
Meanwhile, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, currently in Japan, expressed optimism about allowing spectators if conditions improve, though Dr. Omi deemed this unlikely.