Measles Cases in Japan Surge to 197, More than Triple Year-on-Year, with Tokyo, Kagoshima Reporting Highest Numbers

The Yomiuri Shimbun

15:04 JST, April 8, 2026

Cases of measles, which are highly contagious, have reached 197 from the start of the year through March 29, the Japan Institute for Health Security (JIHS) announced Tuesday.

The number is more than three times the 60 cases that occurred during the same period last year, which was the highest figure after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The amount of cases is a preliminary figure.

JIHS is urging the public to ensure children receive their routine vaccinations.

Thirty new cases were reported in the week ending March 29. Regarding the cumulative number of cases this year by prefecture, Tokyo had the highest number with 48 cases, followed by Kagoshima with 24. In Kagoshima City, a cluster infection occurred at a high school graduation ceremony.

The main factor behind the increase is believed to be the spread of the virus brought in by people who were infected in outbreak areas overseas.

While there is no specific antiviral treatment for measles, it can be prevented through vaccination. Children are eligible for two doses of the vaccine at public expense — one at age 1 and another before starting school. Vaccinations are also available at the patient’s expense.

Just under 70% of patients had received one dose or fewer of the vaccine, or their vaccination history was unknown.

“It is important for many people to complete the two-dose vaccination series,” said Tomimasa Sunagawa of JIHS.

“People traveling abroad, health care workers and those who come into frequent contact with foreign tourists should pay particular attention to confirming their vaccination history.”