Japan has seen a dramatic spike in flu cases, reaching the highest levels since record-keeping began in 1999. According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, influenza cases across the country surged to a staggering 317,812 patients in the week ending December 29. This marked the 10th consecutive week of increases, with a 1.5-fold rise compared to the previous week, as reported by Kyodo News. 

The surge in cases has put a strain on Japan’s healthcare system, particularly as shortages of flu medications have been reported. Major pharmaceutical companies, including Sawai Pharmaceutical Co and Chugai Pharmaceutical Co, have announced temporary halts in the supply of Tamiflu and its generic alternatives due to difficulties meeting the overwhelming demand. Sawai aims to resume its supply by late January or early February, while Chugai expects to replenish stocks by late February.

Experts believe the uptick in flu cases may be linked to increased movement of people during the holiday period, as Japan’s population returned to more typical social activities after months of pandemic restrictions. Hiroyuki Kunishima, a professor at St Marianna University School of Medicine, noted that weakened immune systems due to the lack of flu outbreaks in recent years, owing to COVID-19 containment measures, could also be a contributing factor. Hospitals are now facing significant pressure as a result.

Flu cases have been reported across all 47 prefectures, with Oita Prefecture in the southwest recording the highest number of patients per facility, averaging 104.84. On the other hand, Okinawa in the south reported the lowest at 24.3 people per facility.

With flu season in full swing, health experts are urging the public to get vaccinated, even at this late stage, to mitigate further spread. The situation highlights the importance of vigilance in flu prevention, especially as the country faces the dual challenges of flu and the lingering effects of the pandemic.