Coronavirus: Why Japan tested so few people

Experts sought to track disease's spread, but citizens wanted quick diagnosis

20200218  coronavirus vial

Japan's decision to limit the number of coronavirus tests carried out has caused some public concern.  © Reuters

HISAHIKO YANO, Nikkei senior staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan's relatively restrained approach to testing for the novel coronavirus has engendered public frustration, especially as neighboring South Korea makes a massive push with drive-through tests.

So why did Japan take the path it did? Not because its testing capabilities are lacking, but because experts trying to create the best possible data set have a fundamentally different perspective from laypeople who want a medical solution now.

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