Tokyo, May 9: Japan has reported over 400 cases of measles since January, according to a national health research institution. The Japan Institute of Health Security revealed that medical facilities across the country reported 68 new cases of measles in the week ending April 26, bringing the total for the year to 436. In comparison, there were 96 cases reported during the same period last year, while the total for 2025 was just 265 cases.
Tokyo alone has recorded 211 cases this year, accounting for nearly half of the national total. When including neighboring prefectures Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama, the Greater Tokyo metropolitan area has seen over 300 cases.
A notice released by the institute at the end of April indicated that most measles patients this year are teenagers and young adults in their twenties. Approximately half of these individuals had not completed the recommended two-dose vaccination or lacked clear vaccination records.
The highest annual number of measles cases in Japan over the past decade was recorded in 2019, with a total of 744 cases.
The institute warned that measles is a highly contagious disease, with over 90% of individuals without immunity likely to become infected upon exposure to the virus. Severe cases can lead to complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis.
The World Health Organization declared Japan ‘measles-free’ in 2015. However, since 2023, there has been a global increase in measles cases, raising concerns about the risk of imported infections.
The institute emphasized that the most effective way to prevent measles infection and severe illness is to receive both doses of the vaccine. Additionally, travelers to regions where measles is spreading are advised to confirm their vaccination status before departure.
Individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever, rash, cough, or red eyes are urged to contact medical facilities before visiting hospitals and to inform healthcare professionals of any recent foreign travel or contact with infected individuals.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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