On April 23, twelve more cases of COVID-19 infection were found in Fukuoka Prefecture, bringing the cumulative total to 575. Also, the prefecture announced its fourteenth and fifteenth deaths linked to the virus. Reflecting on the recent development of a suspected cluster at a nightclub in Kurume City, the prefecture sent closure request letters to the thirty-six businesses that remain open despite current guidelines. The Governor also mentioned the possibility of taking stronger actions if those facilities fail to comply. He added that more than 90% of pachinko parlors in the region had already stopped operation, but that 10% have not.
Meanwhile, the prefectural medical association announced the opening of the first PCR “drive-through” test facility in Fukuoka City on May 1. The new testing system, along with coronavirus-specialized outpatient facilities, would allow new patients to access medical care without contacting local health centers while minimizing the risk of in-hospital infections.
The location of the facility is yet to be announced to avoid initial congestion. Five to six more such testing stations will soon open in the prefecture. Sources: KBC, NHK, Fukuoka Prefecture
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