Message from the Mayor about the extension of the COVID-19 state of emergency (2021.8.18)

The national government has decided to extend the state of emergency in effect for Kanagawa and other prefectures until September 12.

We are currently seeing an unprecedented, severe surge of infections.
As of yesterday, new cases identified in August numbered at 12,467, well above the 10,157 total cases from last year. The 586 hospital beds secured in the city for coronavirus cases has currently passed 80% occupancy.
Yokohama has formed a special team within Y-CERT (Yokohama coronavirus emergency response team) and its committing full efforts to coordinating hospitalizations, transfers, and transport. However, the rapid increases in both the number of hospitalizations due to the current spread of infection and the number of emergency care cases are placing severe strain on the health care system, and we face an extremely serious situation.
We must do what we can to stop any further spread of infection at all costs.

The city is currently focusing its efforts on expanding the hospital beds available for patients testing positive to preserve the health care system and maintain both COVID-19 treatment and regular medical care for emergencies, cancer, and other issues.
I once again call on all residents to help save lives, and to protect their family, friends, and themselves.
Please observe the basic measures to prevent infection, such as frequently washing your hands, gargling with water, and wearing masks. Now more than ever, please endeavor to reduce the chance of contact with others by refraining from any non-essential or non-urgent outings and avoiding going to crowded areas.
To help prevent the spread of infection, Yokohama will suspend reservations for use of any public facilities for the time being. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Yokohama will continue to coordinate with the government, prefecture, and health care facilities as well as implement all possible measures to prevent the spread of infection to protect the lives and livelihoods of all residents.