SAITAMA -- Saitama Prefecture has asked its residents to avoid patronizing shops and restaurants, both in and out of the prefecture, that have not taken adequate measures against the spread of the novel coronavirus.
The prefectural government made the request on Wednesday based on the revised law on special measures against new strains of influenza, an action came in response to a prefecture-wide increase in the number of people infected with the coronavirus -- mainly at restaurants that provide entertainment.
Article 24 of the special measures law stipulates that prefectures nationwide can request the cooperation of organizations or individuals when a prefectural governor finds it necessary to implement infection control measures.
The Saitama prefectural government also asked restaurant operators in its jurisdiction to take thorough measures, including disinfecting and wearing masks, against infectious diseases.
"Numerous cases of infection have been confirmed in downtown areas in Tokyo, Saitama City and other locations where restaurants and bars serve customers in nightlife districts," said Saitama Gov. Motohiro Ono. "I'm asking people to step things up another level in accordance with the law."
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