Flu season arrives in Japan Published Feb. 3, 2009 By Maj. Nicole Avci 374th Medical Group public health YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- The seasonal influenza virus infection is now making its annual appearance at Yokota Air Base and the Tokyo area. Earlier last week, the Japanese Bureau of Social Welfare and Public Health declared an official "Influenza Epidemic Alert" when the number of influenza cases seen in the local Tokyo area sentinel hospitals rose significantly. Additionally, the 374th Medical Group personnel here have recently confirmed their first several positive influenza cases of the 2008 and 2009 season. While the number of influenza virus infections has increased significantly over the past two-three week period, it should be stressed that this is a normal seasonal occurrence in Japan; influenza virus activity usually rises significantly during the month of January here. So while this is no cause for undue alarm, the 374 MDG would like to inform the public the influenza virus activity is currently on the rise, and offer several recommendations to reduce the spread of this illness among our population. First, here is a little basic information about influenza and the current outbreak in Japan. This is being caused by regularly circulating seasonal influenza virus strains, not the dreaded "Avian Influenza" H5N1 virus strain being covered in the news right now due to its potential to spark a novel global influenza pandemic. This seasonal influenza illness outbreak, while not as deadly as the avian influenza strain, still has the ability to cause significant illness, particularly in infants, young children, the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems. Therefore, every effort should be taken to prevent the spread of infection. The influenza virus is spread person-to-person by airborne transmission--breathing in air contaminated with virus from an infected person, usually by coughing or sneezing. The virus is also spread by touching items contaminated with virus from an infected person. Such contaminated items can include used tissues, doorknobs, light switches and other "common use items" such as staplers and telephones in the workplace. One of the best ways to prevent the spread of the flu is to avoid contact with sick individuals. Those with suspected influenza should be permitted to stay home from work or school until recovered, if possible. Symptoms of true influenza (rather than a simple common cold) generally include fevers greater than 100.5 F (38 C), severe body aches, sore throat, and cough, possibly with difficulty breathing. The person's medical provider or supervisor may consider sending them home from work or school if he or she suspects influenza. Attendance at social gatherings should also be limited if someone is suffering from the flu. Other key means to prevent the spread of this illness include practicing good cough etiquette. This includes covering the mouth and nose with a tissue while coughing or sneezing. If no tissue is available, cough or sneeze into your sleeve; it's honestly better than coughing or sneezing into hands as long as they are washed promptly. Also of vital importance in preventing spread of the flu is basic handwashing. At a minimum, wash your hands after coughing or sneezing and using the lavatory, and before eating, drinking or smoking. Additionally, money is also a common way germs can be spread; it is also a good idea to wash your hands after handling money, both coins and bills. Other recommendations for avoiding the flu include keeping your living and work areas clean; sanitize potentially contaminated surfaces with bleach or an alcohol solution. Maintaining one's health, fitness level and vaccinations is also key to preventing infection. For any questions or concerns regarding influenza, contact either a healthcare provider at 225-8864 or the 374 MDG Public Health Office at 225-5311 or 225-3541. However, for emergencies call the Urgent Care Clinic at 225-7740.