Japan Declares National Flu Epidemic as Cases Surge and Schools Close

Japan has declared a nationwide flu epidemic after an unprecedented early spike in cases, forcing schools to close and hospitals to overflow with patients. The outbreak, which arrived five weeks earlier than usual, has prompted the return of some pandemic-style restrictions.

According to Japan’s Ministry of Health, 4,030 people were hospitalized with influenza as of October 3 — a fourfold increase from the previous week — and 135 schools and childcare centers have been temporarily shut down to curb the spread.

Health experts warn that the early and rapid spread may signal that the virus is evolving.

«The flu season has started really early this year, but in the changing global environment this might become more common,» said Professor Yoko Tsukamoto of the Health Sciences University of Hokkaido.

He added that global travel and population movement may be accelerating the virus’s adaptation to new environments.

«People need to take common-sense precautions — get vaccinated, wash hands regularly, and avoid spreading infection,» he urged.

The surge has strained Japan’s healthcare system, with several hospitals reporting overcrowded wards similar to scenes from the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely amid fears that the outbreak could signal a broader global trend in viral adaptation.