Warning: Japanese Influenza! Tourists Need to Be Cautious
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, be cautious! Influenza is currently rampant. How should you prepare to travel with peace of mind?
If you’re planning to visit Japan soon, make sure to check the situation carefully! Japan is currently experiencing its worst flu outbreak in 26 years, with over 9.5 million cases reported in just 144 days. Recently, Taiwanese actress “Barbie Hsu” tragically passed away due to complications from the flu, raising concerns that this year’s flu season might be more severe than usual.
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Why is this year's flu concerning?
Japan is facing a severe outbreak, especially in Kyushu, which is the area with the highest flu rates. The provinces with the highest patient rates include:
- Oita (104.84 cases per 100,000 people)
- Kagoshima (96.40 cases)
- Saga (94.36 cases)
- Kumamoto (92.56 cases)
- Miyazaki (90.24 cases)
- The flu strain B is spreading rapidly, leading to more severe symptoms, drug resistance, and complications like pneumonia and nervous system dysfunction.
- Hospitals in Japan, especially in Tokyo, are becoming overwhelmed, which might make it harder for tourists to access medical care.
- There’s also a shortage of medicines, especially antiviral drugs like Tamiflu, which may not be available at times.
- Medical treatment costs are high, without travel insurance, you could end up paying tens of thousands of yen!
- The easing of COVID-19 measures has led to a stronger flu season, as the public’s immunity has decreased due to years of mask-wearing and social distancing.
Who is most at risk for severe illness?
- Young children (6 months to 2 years old)
- Pregnant women (from the 4th month onwards)
- Elderly people (65 years and older)
- Those with chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- People weighing over 100 kg
- Dialysis patients
How to Prepare for a Safe Trip?
1.Before Traveling:
- Get the flu vaccine at least 3-4 weeks before departure.
- Purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
- Bring medication for fever, cough, phlegm, and oral rehydration salts.
- Check the hospitals that accept foreign nationals through the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).
2.If You Fall Ill During Your Trip:
- Call +81-50-3816-2787 (JNTO Hotline) available 24/7 in English.
- Dial 119 for emergency ambulance services.
- Use a translation app to communicate with doctors.
When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?
- May–September: The safest time as flu infection rates are 3-5 times lower.
- December–March: The peak of flu season. If you can, it’s better to plan your trip after April 2025.
Summary: If possible, reschedule your trip to a safer time, but if you must go, make sure to prepare well—get vaccinated, bring medications, buy travel insurance, and check hospital information in advance. This will help you travel more safely and comfortably. With care from ACU PAY.
References
- Popular tags | Influenza
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