Tokyo Paralympics starts today as Japan witnesses surge in fresh Covid cases

After the successful completion of Tokyo 2020, Japan's capital city is now set to host the Paralympics starting Tuesday as the country witnesses a fresh surge in Covid-19 count. A total of 4400 athletes from 162 teams are taking part in the spectator-less version of the Paralympics.  

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Since the start of the Olympics in July, the country has witnessed a steep rise in fresh Coronavirus infections and the country has been recording as many as 25,000 cases per day in the past week. Although the surge is not very concerning when compared with global figures, only 40% of the population is fully vaccinated, insufficient to control the fast-spreading Delta variant. 13 Japanese cities are under strict restrictions including Tokyo and nearby cities.  

Around 547 Covid cases including 151 participants were reported in Japan that were directly linked to the Olympic Games. Despite the issues, the organisers are hopeful of conducting a safe Paralympic Games.