Daijiworld Media Network - Tokyo

Tokyo, May 9: Japan has witnessed a significant increase in Measles cases this year, with more than 400 infections reported nationwide since January, according to the Japan Institute for Health Security.

The health body stated that medical institutions across the country recorded 68 new measles cases during the week ending April 26, pushing the total number of infections in 2026 to 436. During the same period last year, only 96 cases had been reported, while the overall total for 2025 stood at 265.

Tokyo has emerged as the worst-affected region, accounting for 211 cases — nearly half of the country’s total infections. When combined with neighbouring prefectures such as Kanagawa, Chiba and Saitama, the greater Tokyo metropolitan area has reported over 300 cases.

In an advisory released in late April, the institute noted that the majority of infected individuals this year were teenagers and people in their twenties. Officials said nearly half of them had either not completed the recommended two-dose measles vaccination schedule or were uncertain about their vaccination history.

Japan’s highest annual measles tally in the past decade was recorded in 2019, when the country reported 744 infections.
Health authorities warned that measles remains one of the world’s most contagious viral diseases, with more than 90 per cent of unvaccinated or non-immune individuals at risk of infection after exposure. Serious complications can include pneumonia and encephalitis.

Japan had been officially declared measles-free by the World Health Organization in 2015. However, officials noted that global measles cases have been increasing steadily since 2023, raising concerns over imported infections through international travel.

The institute stressed that receiving two doses of the measles vaccine remains the most effective protection against infection and severe illness. Travelers visiting countries experiencing outbreaks were advised to verify their immunisation status before departure.

Authorities also urged people showing symptoms such as fever, skin rashes, cough or red eyes to contact healthcare providers before visiting hospitals or clinics and to disclose any recent travel history or possible exposure to infected individuals.