Japanese authorities announce influenza epidemic
This year’s flu outbreak in Japan has caused over 4,000 people to be hospitalised, and forced hundreds of schools to shut down
Japanese health authorities have confirmed that influenza cases in the country have surpassed the epidemic threshold, with over 4,000 people hospitalised by the disease by 3 October – an average of 1.04 patients per medical facility.
This represents a fourfold jump in numbers compared with the previous week, with 28 of Japan’s 47 prefectures reporting rising cases.
Additionally, this year’s flu season is early, arriving almost five weeks ahead of its usual late November or December start.
Authorities have advised against unnecessary hospital visits to avoid overcrowding, and to consult doctors promptly if flu symptoms appear. Additionally, both residents and tourists have been advised to get vaccinations as soon as possible, and follow basic hygiene rules.
According to Professor Yoko Tsukamoto of the Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, quoted in the South China Morning Post, the early flu season reflects a “changing global environment”, as well as rising virus resistance to standard treatments.
“We are seeing this resistance in Japan, but it is also being reported in other parts of the world,” she stated.
Japan is a top destination for tourists, according to recent data from Booking.com.