TOKYO: The Japanese government called on people to stay alert against the new coronavirus on Saturday, the first weekend since its state of emergency was lifted in 39 of the country's 47 prefectures on Thursday.

"Carelessness can be seen in various places after the state of emergency was lifted," economic and fiscal policy minister Yasutoshi Nishimura told a press conference.

Nishimura said carelessness can lead to a new wave of the outbreak, urging people not to relax efforts to contain the virus.

Specifically, he called on residents of the 39 prefectures to continue containment efforts while resuming economic activities gradually.

For residents of the eight prefectures where the state of emergency is still in place, Nishimura underlined the need for continued efforts to reduce contact by 80 percent.

"Becoming too relaxed would boost the number of new infection cases again late this month and the government would be unable to lift the emergency," he said.

JIJI Press