Japan measles: Most cases in a decade

In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in Japan, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) in Tokyo reports 467 cases through May 9.

This is the highest number of measles cases recorded during the same time period in a decade.

In comparison, a total of 282 measles cases were reported nationally in 2018.

Osaka prefecture has reported the most cases with 136, followed by Tokyo with 71.

Just four years ago, the WHO Western Regional Office verified that Japan had achieved measles elimination.

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Measles is a viral disease characterized by high fever, rash, and catarrh (i.e., cough, coryza and conjunctivitis). It is highly contagious mainly by airborne transmission. Complication of measles such as pneumonia and encephalitis may lead to death. However, vaccines can prevent measles.



