Measles cases in Japan surpass last year's total

Measles cases are increasing across Japan at the fastest pace since 2020. This year's number has already surpassed last year's total.

The Japan Institute for Health Security says 56 cases were initially reported during the week through April 12. There have been a total of 299 cases so far this year, topping last year's figure of 265.

Thirty patients, or about 10 percent of the total, are believed to have been infected overseas in countries such as Indonesia and New Zealand.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air, as well as from water droplets and physical contact. Serious cases can be fatal. Symptoms include a fever, coughing and a rash.

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