Japan is preparing to extend its state of emergency over the novel coronavirus, originally set to end on May 6, for about a month, its government sources told Reuters, even as some other countries begin to reopen after strict lockdowns.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters “it would be difficult to return to every-day life on May 7”, adding that the country needed to “brace for a drawn-out battle”.

Abe said he would consult on the scope of the extension with experts, Reuters reports.