In a concerning trend, schools across the region have seen a surge in influenza cases among students since the start of the new academic term, resulting in a growing number of class and grade-level closures. According to regional authorities, the number of flu cases reported at 198 medical facilities between August 28 and September 3 rose by 298 compared to the previous week, totaling 823 cases. The average number of cases per facility has increased to 4.16, which is 1.57 times higher than last week’s average.
When the average number of cases per facility exceeds one, it is considered a flu season. The region has been experiencing an ongoing flu season since January, a pattern not seen since 14 years ago. Notably, the rate of infections has exceeded the national average since July.
As of September 4, class or grade closures were confirmed in 13 schools in Fukuoka City, 14 in Kitakyushu City, three in Kurume City, and 11 in other areas. Regional officials speculate that the immunity levels might have dropped since there hasn’t been a major flu outbreak for the past three years due to the ongoing prevalence of COVID-19. They are urging the public to follow basic infection control measures, such as proper ventilation, frequent handwashing, gargling, and wearing appropriate masks. Source: NHK
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