Tokyo cases spike to highest number since May

The Japanese capital confirms 107 new cases of the coronavirus, the highest since early May, raising concern about a possible resurgence of the disease just as businesses return to normal.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, at a meeting with a panel of experts, says the infections are on the rise and extra caution is needed. Koike says many of the cases are linked to nightlife establishments, and urged workers to proactively take virus tests and further safety measures.

“We are now at a stage where we need to use caution against the spread of the infections,” she says.

Tokyo has asked hospitals to start securing up to 3,000 beds in case infections spread further. Up to 1,000 beds are currently set aside for coronavirus patients, officials say.

— AP