Japan to declare state of emergency

He said the state of emergency will cover Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka and four other hard-hit prefectures, and will be in effect for about a month. Measures are expected to include a stay-at-home request for residents, but there will be no penalties for objectors.

Public transportation, banks, groceries and other essential services will continue operating. Abe said the state of emergency is intended to further reinforce social distancing between people to slow the spread of the virus, while maintaining as much social and economic activity as possible.

He also told that his government will launch a 108 trillion yen (1 trillion USD) stimulus package to help counter the economic impact of the pandemic, including cash payouts to households in need and financial support to protect businesses and jobs.