Japan's cities scramble to move mild coronavirus patients to hotels

Critically ill given priority for hospital beds as space runs out

20200403N Japan ambulance

As the number of coronavirus cases rises, Japanese cities are scrambling to arrange facilities to house patients with moderate symptoms.  © Reuters

MINORU OSAKI, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- As Japan prepares for a possible explosion in coronavirus cases, big-city governments are arranging alternative accommodations for noncritical patients so hospital beds can go to those who need them most.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government looks to rent entire hotels to house patients with milder symptoms, in an attempt to avoid overwhelming the health care system. Osaka plans similar moves.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.