A major influenza outbreak is affecting Tokyo just as the Lunar New Year holiday approaches. Healthcare professionals interviewed on Monday reminded the Taiwanese public that flu vaccines are most effective two weeks after inoculation, so anyone with travel plans should get vaccinated as soon as possible.
The number of influenza cases in Tokyo more than doubled for two consecutive weeks in December, prompting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to announce an influenza epidemic alert for the first time in six years. Public health experts in Japan have said that, based on case counts in December, they expect cases to peak in January.
Symptoms of the flu include high fever, sore throat, and weakness and fatigue. Recent Taiwanese visitors to Japan have taken to social media to share that they contracted the virus during their travels, describing the symptoms as even more unpleasant than COVID-19.
Regarding the outbreak, Dr. Guo Fei-ran (郭斐然) of the National Taiwan University Department of Family Medicine advises anyone with holiday vacation plans to get their flu shot. He also recommends having antipyretics and other symptom-relieving medication at the ready.
Grassroots of Taiwan Pharmacists Association Chairman Shen Tsai-ying (沈采穎) added that although many drugstores in Japan carry over the counter medicine, it is better to prepare in advance. She also emphasized the importance of frequent hand-washing, especially before eating, and wearing a mask in public places.