Japan is grappling with severe flu medication shortages as panic buying and uneven stock distribution leave hospitals and pharmacies struggling to meet demand. The flu outbreak, which reached record highs in late December last year, has been exacerbated by excessive hoarding by certain medical institutions, according to the China Media Group.
Data released on January 31 by Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases estimated that from September 2, 2024, to January 26, 2025, the country recorded approximately 9.523 million flu cases. This surge marks one of the most significant flu seasons in recent history.
Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare reported on January 11, 2025, that the final week of December 2024 saw the highest weekly flu caseload since record-keeping began in 1999. Approximately 5,000 designated medical institutions reported a staggering 317,812 patients during that week—averaging 64.39 cases per facility—far surpassing the government's warning threshold of 30 cases per facility.
In response to the escalating outbreak, health officials have repeatedly urged citizens to adopt preventive measures such as wearing masks and thorough handwashing. Despite these efforts, the panic buying of flu medications has led to uneven stock distribution, causing some areas to face critical shortages.
Compounding the public health challenge, Japan is also experiencing a surge in avian influenza outbreaks. In January alone, around 5 million chickens and other birds were culled across five prefectures in an attempt to contain the spread. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries warned that the outbreaks show no signs of slowing and the situation may worsen, potentially breaking previous records.
The avian influenza outbreaks have also impacted the economy, particularly the egg market. The ministry noted that egg prices have increased by 15 percent since the start of the year, affecting both consumers and businesses.
As Japan confronts these simultaneous health crises, authorities are working to manage resources effectively while encouraging the public to remain vigilant and adhere to recommended safety measures.
With input from Xinhua
Reference(s):
Panic buying causes drug shortages in Japan amid flu outbreak
cgtn.com
