Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 12: Japan is grappling with an unusually early and widespread flu outbreak, with over 4,030 cases reported across the country, according to local media citing the health ministry. The flu season has arrived nearly a month ahead of schedule, marking the second earliest onset in two decades.

Approximately 3,000 hospitals nationwide have recorded flu cases, averaging 1.04 patients per facility — a figure that surpasses the epidemic threshold set by health authorities. The highest number of cases per hospital has been reported in Okinawa Prefecture, followed by Tokyo and Kagoshima.

The impact on children has been particularly severe, prompting the closure of more than 100 schools, kindergartens, and childcare centers. Typically, Japan’s flu season begins in December and runs through March. However, this year’s early wave echoes last season's unusual pattern, which began in November and peaked by late December.

Amid rising concern, the Japanese health ministry has urged citizens to take preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and mask-wearing. While the specific flu strain driving the outbreak has not yet been identified, the ministry recommends immediate vaccination for high-risk groups — including young children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Yoko Tsukamoto, a professor at the Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, warned that such early flu outbreaks may become more common in the evolving global landscape. “With increased global and domestic movement, viruses are spreading faster and adapting to new environments,” she told the South China Morning Post. Tsukamoto noted that other countries are also reporting premature flu seasons, indicating a potential shift in global flu patterns.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely as Japan prepares for what may be a prolonged and unpredictable flu season.