Situation update of identified cases and responses in Japan-10

May 22, 2009

More cases have continuously been reported from two prefectures, Hyogo and Osaka.  Also, five prefectures (Kyoto, Kanagawa, Saitama, Shiga, Tokyo) reported one case each, except Tokyo, which reported two cases.  As of 9 am, May 22, 2009, a total of 276 confirmed cases have been reported from Japan to WHO in accordance with the International Health Regulation 2005.  One hundred and forty-six cases are reported from Hyogo, 123 are from Osaka and one from Kanagawa, Shiga and Tokyo.  Four cases were reported from the Narita Quarantine Station. Cases from other areas (Kyoto and Saitama) are to be reported to WHO shortly.  Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to clarify the transmission route and epidemiological links between the cases.  Public health interventions that were already implemented included school closure and advice for cancelling or postponing of large public gatherings. 

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare announced today that it will shift the policy for this novel influenza A(H1N1), including flexible operations on school closure, providing healthcare and quarantine.  The judgment regarding the operation will be made depending on the magnitude of transmission in each area.