Move FM Global News

TOKYO, Japan: 31,000 new coronavirus cases were reported in Tokyo on July 21, setting a new one-day record since the pandemic began.

Throughout Japan there were 186,229 new infections on the same day, also setting a record.

While there were few reported serious cases and deaths, officials noted that hospitals were increasingly concerned about being able to offer treatment for so many infected people.

“We need to keep a close eye on the infection situation, including the issue of access to medical services, with the highest vigilance,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told the media.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is not calling for new restrictions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Of note, most Japanese continue to wear masks indoors, and outside, while most stores require masks to be worn by customers.

“I think it’s really shocking that it’s more than 30,000,” said Ai Okamura, a 30-year-old office worker. “Because I live with my grandmother, it makes me feel much more cautious,” as quoted by Reuters.