Despite being early in the flu season, Japan is already reporting widespread influenza cases across the country, warranting immediate health precaution actions. Japanese health authorities are calling on citizens to take preventive steps, including vaccination, to counter the spread. Predictably, the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses are the most vulnerable to the virus.

Health matters are taken very seriously in Japan, with an emphasis on preventive actions in personal and public health. The widespread occurrence of influenza could impact not only public health but also the economy with absences from work and school. The government and people value social responsibility, hence the well-being of the community is a shared concern.

Similar to the US and EU, Japan has a structured and efficient response to public health issues like influenza. However, Japan puts a stronger emphasis on preventive actions and health consciousness is deeply ingrained in their society. Being a closely-knit society, outbreaks are treated with high priority, and prevention tactics such as wearing masks are more widely accepted and practiced.