Traveller Health

Flu Outbreak in Japan! Attention Hong Kong Travellers

Japan is currently experiencing a severe flu outbreak, especially in popular tourist destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, which have reached "alert" levels! According to statistics from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as of December 29, over 310,000 flu patients have been reported nationwide, with an average of more than 30,000 new cases each day.

Japan is currently experiencing a severe flu outbreak, especially in popular tourist destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, which have reached "alert" levels! According to statistics from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as of December 29, over 310,000 flu patients have been reported nationwide, with an average of more than 30,000 new cases each day.

Many Hong Kong travellers returning from Japan have already shown symptoms such as high fever, fatigue, and sore throat before arriving back home. With the Lunar New Year holiday approaching, the number of flu cases is expected to rise, so it is essential to be cautious!

Flu Prevention in Japan

The quadrivalent flu vaccine can protect against four strains of the flu virus, including two types of influenza A and two types of influenza B, which is sufficient to combat the currently circulating influenza A strains in Japan. After receiving the flu vaccine, it takes about two weeks for your body to build up enough antibodies, so it is advisable for those planning to travel to Japan to get vaccinated as early as possible. Additionally, remember to bring along flu testing kits and necessary medications, and consider consulting your doctor about antiviral medications at the pre-travel consultation.

Travel Tips

Before traveling, we often focus on high-risk infectious diseases (such as typhoid, malaria, and rabies) but tend to overlook the most common flu. It is especially important to be cautious about flu transmission when flying, cruising, or participating in large events.

Flu Symptoms Include:

  • Fever (usually over 38°C)
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue
  • Nasal congestion
  • Chills

To avoid any disruptions during your trip, it is recommended to get the flu vaccine at least 2 weeks in advance and carry necessary medications. Stay vigilant and watch for flu symptoms to make your trip to Japan enjoyable and safe! Don't forget to share these tips so that more friends can benefit! ✨✈️