Message from the Mayor about the surge in COVID-19 cases (2021.8.9)

On August 9, the number of new daily COVID-19 infections more than doubled the previous record number of 542 cases during the third wave in January, to 1,139 cases, surpassing 5,000 total cases over the past week. Cases are rising sharply, and we face an unprecedented situation.

Yokohama’s coronavirus emergency response team, Y-CERT, has been at the center of coordinating hospitalizations, transfers, and transport, and has made certain everyone is hospitalized who needs it. In addition, all city departments, especially public health centers, are working to provide support for patients in accommodations for recovery and those convalescing in their homes.

The health care system is currently being sustained, but if infections continue to spread at this rate, then we will face an extremely dire situation.

While a state of emergency has been declared, we must have each and every resident sustain a sense of urgency to put a stop to a further spread of infections. We are deeply concerned about a rise in infections over the obon holiday period. I ask that you limit contact with others as much as possible, and refrain from non-essential and non-urgent outings.

I ask for your continued understanding and cooperation as we work together with all residents to overcome this difficult time and stop the spread of infections.