The causes of the epidemic
The influenza A H3N2 strain, the same strain that has also caused a surge of cases in Australia and New Zealand in the last two months, coinciding with the end of winter in the southern hemisphere, is said to be responsible for the abnormal flu season in Japan.
Factors contributing to this advance include increased international travel, which facilitates the circulation of respiratory viruses, and the effects of climate change, which alters the seasonal patterns of spread of infections.
Experts also point to the low exposure to the virus in recent years, due to anti-Covid measures and the resulting drop in immunity, particularly among children and the elderly.
Further cases and consequences for Europe
The Japanese epidemic is not an isolated case. Malaysia had a similarly early influenza season, also dominated by the H3N2 strain. About six thousand students were infected and some schools were forced to suspend classes.
According to the Ministry of Health, there were 97 influenza outbreaks across the country last week, up from 14 the week before. Most were recorded in schools and kindergartens.
AloJapan.com