36 more COVID-19 cases reported at U.S. base on Japan's Okinawa: Kyodo

Authorities have confirmed 36 more novel coronavirus infections at Camp Hansen on Japan's Okinawa, taking to 136 the tally at U.S. military bases on the island, Kyodo News said on Wednesday.

The outbreak emerged at the weekend, provoking the anger of the prefecture's governor, who has called into question the U.S. military's virus prevention measures.

Previous media reports said the U.S. troops have taken part in parties in downtown areas and beaches around July 4 to celebrate Independence Day.

In fear of the military outbreak spread to the southern island prefecture, Okinawa officials have urged the U.S. to take steps to prevent the spread.

Earlier on Tuesday, Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono said the outbreak of coronavirus cases at U.S. military bases in Japan is "extremely serious." 

(With input from Reuters)