The number of influenza patients in Japan has reached an all-time high!
The number of influenza infections in Japan has reached an all-time high. According to a report by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of patients reported from approximately 5,000 designated medical institutions nationwide reached 317,812 in the week from December 23 to 29, 2024, with an average number of patients per medical institution of 64.39. This is the highest figure since statistics began in 1999. (Source: Nippom.com)
The spread of infection is particularly noticeable in the Kyushu region, with Oita Prefecture having the highest number of patients per medical institution in the country at 104.84, followed by Kagoshima Prefecture with 96.40 and Saga Prefecture with 94.36. Of the 47 prefectures in Japan, 43 have exceeded the alert level (30 people per medical institution), and the spread of infection is spreading nationwide. (Source: Nippom.com)
Due to this rapid spread of infection, schools and educational institutions across the country are closing and closing classes one after another. It has also been reported that between September and December 2024, 11,800 influenza patients nationwide required hospitalization, many of whom were elderly people aged 60 or older.
In response to this situation, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare is calling for thorough implementation of basic infection control measures. Specifically, it is recommended that people wash their hands and disinfect their hands thoroughly, wear masks, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid crowds. In particular, elderly people and those with underlying diseases are at high risk of developing severe symptoms, so it is important to get vaccinated early and manage their health.
In addition, if influenza symptoms appear, it is recommended that people visit a medical institution as soon as possible and receive appropriate treatment. In addition, to prevent the spread of infection, people with symptoms such as fever and cough are asked to refrain from going out.
Under these circumstances, thorough individual infection control measures will help prevent the spread of infection throughout society. It is important to continue basic infection control measures in daily life, such as washing your hands, gargling, wearing masks, and proper ventilation.
In addition, for the latest information and infection status, please check the official website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and reliable news organizations at any time and take appropriate measures.
The following video provides a detailed report on the latest influenza infection situation.
