
Japan has declared a nationwide influenza epidemic, as there has been a sudden and early surge in flu cases, sending over 4,000 people to hospitals and shutting down dozens of schools. According to experts,
the outbreak arrived five weeks earlier than usual - signaling a shift in how the virus is spreading across Asia. The country’s health ministry has urged citizens to get vaccinated as soon as possible as a preventive measure, as doctors warn that this early rise could stretch hospital systems. Even though it is said to be a seasonal flu outbreak, not a new pandemic, the scale and timing have raised a red flag for other countries - including India, as the region enters the cooler months, when respiratory infections rise significantly. According to officials, 28 of Japan’s 47 prefectures have reported rising cases, especially in Tokyo, Okinawa, and Kagoshima, where more than 130 schools and childcare centres have been temporarily shut down.
What is causing a rise in flu cases?
According to doctors, this year’s early outbreak has been worsened by several factors, which include a mutated version of the flu virus, which is stronger than before, along with fluctuating immunity due to years of reduced exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, erratic weather patterns have favoured viral transmission. Doctors also blame it on low flu vaccination coverage, as after the pandemic, most people have become lax and less consistent with annual flu shots, which makes it easier for the virus to circulate.Can it become a pandemic?
According to experts, it may not happen at the moment. Since it is a seasonal influenza epidemic, it is mostly caused by the familiar H3N2 strain. However, scientists say it surely is a wake-up call as the rapid and virulent spread underscores the rapidity with which flu viruses mutate, and why ongoing surveillance and immunization are extremely important and crucial. And that is why doctors have been repeatedly urging the vulnerable population - including the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions to get vaccinated immediately. According to experts, for most healthy individuals, the flu can be unpleasant but not dangerous, and so, early vaccination is extremely important.What is flu?
The flu is an illness you get from the influenza virus. It causes symptoms like head and body aches, sore throat, fever, and respiratory symptoms, which can be severe. Flu is most common in the winter months, when many people can get sick at once. The flu season happens when cases of the flu go up dramatically — in the Northern Hemisphere, which includes the US, it is from October through May. The highest number of cases usually happens between December and February. Also, since both flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, the only way to know for sure if you have the flu or COVID-19 is to get tested. They both have a risk of serious illness. But different viruses cause these infections, and providers treat them with different medications.Ways to prevent the flu
Doctors say the best way to reduce your risk is to get the flu vaccine every year. You can also get it as a shot or a mist sprayed into your nose. The influenza virus mutates over time, so you need to get vaccinated every year. A few other ways to reduce your risk of getting the flu include:- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
- Avoid being around other people when you or they are sick with the flu or other infectious diseases.
- Wear a mask if you are sick and cannot avoid being around others.
- Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth.