A Tokyo medical group warned on Thursday that the Olympics should be held without spectators because of virus risks, while a doctors’ association urged outright cancellation, warning of potential “disaster”.
Several parts of Japan are under virus states of emergency over a surge in infections, and the public is largely opposed to holding the Games this summer.
Medical groups have warned the massive event could introduce new variants to Japan and strain medical resources as the country battles a fourth virus wave.
The Tokyo Medical Association, with over 20,000 members, has not called for an outright cancellation.
But its chairman Haruo Ozaki said Thursday that “holding the Games without spectators is the bare minimum given the current situation”.
“This is the Olympics in a time of emergency,” he said at a press conference.
Organisers have already barred overseas fans from the Tokyo Games, an unprecedented decision for the Olympics.
A decision on domestic spectators is expected in late June.
The virus states of emergency in several regions, including Tokyo, are expected to be extended this week until June 20.
Ozaki urged the Government to take stricter measures against the virus immediately, warning “this is the last chance” to subdue infections before the Games.
Tokyo’s current virus restrictions allow venues to have up to 5,000 fans or 50 percent capacity, whichever is fewer.