Air Force bases in Japan toughen restrictions amid uptick in coronavirus cases

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — The Air Force has tightened restrictions at its bases in Tokyo and Okinawa but is holding off on tougher measures in northeast Japan as the military battles the coronavirus pandemic.

The new rules follow U.S. Forces Japan commander Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider’s declaration Monday of a public health emergency for U.S. military bases in and around Tokyo. Tuesday, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced a monthlong state of emergency for Tokyo and six other prefectures.

At Yokota Air Base in western Tokyo, home of U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force, 374th Airlift Wing commander Col. Otis Jones on Tuesday widened restrictions imposed on active-duty troops late last month. Those restrictions on travel and activity now include U.S. and Japanese civilian workers, contractors, military retirees and family members.

Those with access to the base are now restricted to a local area that includes Yokota or, if they live off base, their homes, wing spokeswoman Capt. Alicia Premo said in an email Tuesday.

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