Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Japan is currently grappling with a widespread pneumonia outbreak, sparking concerns among both local residents and tourists. The surge in pneumonia cases has drawn global attention, particularly after Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu passed away due to complications from the illness.
The country is currently experiencing a severe seasonal flu outbreak, with the majority of cases attributed to the Influenza virus. This flu virus typically spreads from December to March, coinciding with winter.
The current influenza outbreak considered the worst outbreak Japan faces in 25 years. According to VoI, data released by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) on January 31 shows approximately 9.5 million seasonal flu cases were recorded between September 2, 2024, and January 26, 2025.
The seasonal flu outbreak is concentrated in densely populated areas with high tourist traffic, including Tokyo, Hokkaido, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
The seasonal influenza typically could lead to symptoms such as sudden fever, cough, headache, and full-body fatigue, which most individuals recover within a week.
However, this flu outbreak is particularly concerning as it can lead to more severe health issues, such as respiratory illness pneumonia, which is currently spreading in Japan.
Surge in Pneumonia Cases
Global concern over Japan’s pneumonia outbreak intensified after the death of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, known for her role in the television series Meteor Garden. She passed away while vacationing in Japan due to influenza complications that developed into pneumonia.
Pneumonia can be caused by bacterial and viral infections, with influenza being one of the most common viral triggers. Symptoms of pneumonia vary but are generally associated with lung inflammation.
According to Viva, Influenza symptoms that could lead to Pneumonia which people should warry include:
- Productive cough with green, yellow, or blood-tinged mucus
- Sudden High fever, often accompanied by chills and excessive sweating
- Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity
- Chest pain that worsens when coughing or breathing deeply
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
- Rapid heartbeat
- Bluish lips or nails due to oxygen deprivation
Anyone experiencing these symptoms were advised to seek medical attention immediately, as pneumonia can progress rapidly and become life-threatening, particularly for the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
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Prevention Measures for Travelers
Health experts have issued several recommendations to help travelers reduce their risk of contracting pneumonia and flu while visiting Japan:
- Get a flu vaccination at least two weeks before departure to allow the body to develop antibodies.
- Wear a mask in crowded areas to minimize exposure to viruses.
- Maintain good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently or using hand sanitizer.
- Keep emergency contact numbers for local medical services readily available.
- Purchase travel insurance for additional protection during the trip.
- Consider postponing travel if you have chronic health conditions or are at high risk for severe flu complications.
- Seek medical attention if flu symptoms persist or worsen.
As Japan battles this growing health crisis, authorities urge the public and visitors to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from infection.
(Raidi/Agung)
