Tokyo [Japan], November 18 (ANI/Sputnik): The Tokyo metropolitan government intends to update the COVID-19 alert to the highest level amid a record rise in cases both in the capital and nationwide, the Kyodo news agency reported on Wednesday, citing knowledgeable sources.

The decision is expected to be announced on Thursday, following a meeting of an expert panel. The authorities lowered the alert from the highest to the current level on September 10.

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Earlier in the day, the island nation reported over 2,000 new daily coronavirus cases, marking an all-time record. The capital, in turn, broke its August record with 493 new infections.

In total, Japan has so far confirmed over 121,000 COVID-19 cases, including more than 103,000 recoveries and 1,895 deaths. (ANI/Sputnik)

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(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)