As Japan witnesses several cases of 'breakthrough chickenpox'- infections in individuals who have been vaccinated against the disease - a heightened level of alertness has been called for. Health experts are urging caution, reminding citizens that vaccination does not guarantee total immunity but does reduce the severity of symptoms. The authorities are also carrying out contact tracing in a bid to contain the spread.

In Japan, the vaccination against chickenpox is part of the mandatory immunisations, making these breakthrough cases particularly concerning. Japanese citizens place a high value on health and public safety, which is reflected in their robust healthcare system and strict disease control procedures. Therefore, this public health issue has lead to substantial interest and concern.

In the US and EU, breakthrough infections are treated similarly, with focus placed on contact tracing, isolation, and treatment of the infected individual. The principle behind vaccination - providing substantial but not absolute protection - is well-understood, hence such cases do not result in public panic but instead, foster the implementation of preventive measures.