Influenza cases surge across Japan, 'highest in a decade'

Influenza cases are climbing rapidly across Japan, with weekly counts rising in all 47 prefectures, according to local reports.

The National Institute of Infectious Diseases revealed that approximately 5,000 hospitals and clinics nationwide reported 211,049 flu patients in the seven-day period ending December 22, 2024.

This is more than double the 94,259 cases reported the previous week.

Nationwide impact

The flu season has so far seen an estimated 718,000 confirmed cases, translating to about 1.674 million cases nationwide based on sample data.

The average number of flu patients per medical institution stands at 42.66, marking the highest figure recorded in a decade at this time of year.

Oita Prefecture leads the nation with an average of 82.64 patients per institution, followed by Kagoshima at 65.57 and Saga at 61.62. Alarmingly, 36 prefectures have surpassed the warning threshold of 30 patients per institution, signaling widespread outbreaks.

Experts' take

Dr. Ishida Tadashi, head of the influenza panel at the Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases, anticipates the current outbreak will peak after the New Year holidays.

He attributes the rapid surge to diminished population immunity, as many were less exposed to flu viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Patient numbers are increasing at an unprecedented pace," Ishida stated. He cautioned that holiday travel and gatherings could further accelerate the spread of infections.

Precautionary measures

Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant by adopting preventative measures. Key recommendations include:

• Washing hands frequently.

• Wearing masks in crowded areas.

• Practicing social distancing where possible.

Looking ahead

As influenza cases reach record levels, Japan braces for what could be one of its most challenging flu seasons in recent memory.

Health authorities emphasise the importance of community efforts to mitigate the spread and protect vulnerable populations.