Japan is battling a major influenza outbreak. The country’s health authorities have declared a nationwide flu epidemic, five weeks ahead of the usual season, as cases surge across multiple areas. The sudden spike has forced dozens of schools to shut down and hospitals to deal with overflowing wards. The situation is bringing healthcare workers once again under immense pressure like it did during Covid-19 pandemic.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Health, more than 4,000 people have been hospitalised with influenza as of October 3, marking a four times increase from the previous week. At least 135 schools and childcare centres across the country have temporarily closed to prevent further spread.
An early and aggressive flu season
Experts say what’s worrying this year is not just the timing, but also the intensity of the outbreak. “The flu season has started really early this year, but in the changing global environment this might become a more common scenario,” said Professor Yoko Tsukamoto of the Health Sciences University of Hokkaido.
She added that people need to take simple precautions like get vaccinated, wash hands regularly, and stay home when sick.
Health officials are investigating whether the virus might be evolving faster than before. Professor Tsukamoto believes global travel and population movement could be helping the virus adapt more quickly, allowing it to spread and survive in new conditions.
“This early surge in Japan mirrors what we’re seeing in other parts of the world,” she said. “Influenza strains could be evolving to spread more efficiently or resist standard treatments.”
Outbreaks reported across major areas of Japan
The Health Ministry confirmed that the national average had crossed the epidemic threshold, with 1.04 patients per medical institution which means the flu has spread widely enough to be classified as a national epidemic.
The worst-affected areas include Okinawa, Tokyo, and Kagoshima, while Yamagata Prefecture reported the closure of an entire primary school after 22 out of 36 students developed flu-like symptoms.
With cases expected to peak sooner than usual, authorities are asking people, especially children, the elderly, and those with health conditions to get vaccinated immediately as a precautionary measure.
“For most healthy people, the flu may be unpleasant but not dangerous. But for vulnerable groups, early vaccination is crucial,” said Professor Tsukamoto.
Hospitals overcrowded, public urged to stay cautious
Hospitals across Japan are once again facing a situation similar to the Covid-19 crisis, with overcrowded waiting rooms and staff shortages adding to the strain.
The Health Ministry is also advising schools and workplaces to allow flexible attendance to reduce infections. While no nationwide restrictions have been reintroduced, the government remains on alert.
Travel advice for people visiting Japan
Travel experts have urged foreign visitors to stay cautious. “Even if the strain differs from that in other countries, hygiene measures like mask-wearing and regular handwashing can go a long way,” said Ashley Harvey, a Tokyo-based travel analyst, in a report by SCMP.
So far, there are no travel bans or restrictions, but authorities are asking tourists to stay alert, avoid crowded places, and maintain good hygiene habits.
Early vaccination is the key to stay safe
Health officials say getting the flu vaccine early is one of the best ways to stay protected, especially for children, older adults, and people with weaker immune systems.
Experts are also reminding everyone to follow simple safety steps: keep rooms well-ventilated, clean commonly touched surfaces often, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell to avoid spreading the infection.