Tokyo, Japan is facing a widespread influenza outbreak weeks ahead of schedule, prompting a national alert adn straining medical facilities [[1]].Teh Ministry of Health reported a significant jump in cases during the week of November 10-16, with the average number of patients per medical institution exceeding the alert threshold in 24 of 47 prefectures [[3]]. This early surge,similar to trends observed across other parts of Asia [[2]], is causing widespread disruption, including closures of schools and childcare centers.
Tokyo, Japan – Japan has issued a nationwide alert as influenza cases surge across the country, placing a significant strain on healthcare resources, particularly for young children and the elderly. The rapid increase in infections is occurring weeks earlier than in previous years, raising concerns about a potentially severe flu season.
The Ministry of Health first reported the escalating situation on November 21st. This national warning comes more than five weeks ahead of the typical start of flu season.
“The average number of patients per designated medical institution jumped to 37.73 during the week of November 10-16, a 1.7-fold increase from 21.82 the previous week,” the Ministry of Health reported, according to Asahi, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
“The alert level is triggered when the average exceeds 30 patients per designated medical institution.”
The threshold has been surpassed in 24 of Japan’s 47 prefectures, with eastern Japan experiencing the most acute outbreaks.
Miyagi Prefecture is currently reporting the highest numbers, with 80.02 cases per institution, followed closely by Saitama Prefecture at 70.01 cases.
“Major metropolitan areas are also heavily affected, with Tokyo recording 44.75 cases and Osaka 31.57 cases,” the report continued.
Hospitalizations have reached 1,466 for the week, an increase of over 500 cases compared to the previous week. The age groups most impacted are children aged 1-4 and 5-9, as well as individuals 80 years and older. The surge in cases has also led to a sharp rise in school and daycare closures.
A total of 6,235 educational facilities and childcare centers nationwide have suspended operations – nearly 1.7 times the number reported the previous week.
(sef/sef)
