No Need to Panic, Authorities Say
Health authorities in Japan are urging travelers not to cancel their trips despite a recent surge in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a rare but potentially fatal "flesh-eating disease." While the number of cases is concerning, officials emphasize that basic hygiene measures like hand washing, wearing face masks, and keeping wounds clean are effective in preventing infection.
The outbreak has sparked anxiety among potential visitors, particularly after reports in European media labelled it a "dangerous infectious disease" spreading rapidly. This led to North Korea cancelling the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup soccer tournament scheduled for Pyongyang, citing concerns about the disease.
However, authorities are keen to reassure travelers. They point out that the World Health Organization did not recommend limiting travel to Europe in 2022 when STSS cases surged there, and emphasize that the risk of infection can be minimized with proper hygiene practices.
STSS is a severe form of infection caused by the bacterium streptococcus pyogenes, commonly known for causing strep throat. Cases tend to increase during April and May, coinciding with the start of the new school year. The disease can rapidly cause tissue necrosis and multiple organ failure, primarily affecting individuals in their 30s and older. Sadly, around 30% of STSS cases result in death due to the rapid worsening of symptoms.
In 2023, Japan witnessed a record 941 cases of STSS, according to preliminary figures from the National Institute of Infectious Diseases. As of March 24, 2024, 556 cases had already been reported nationwide. Notably, since the latter half of 2023, a highly contagious variant of the pathogen has been circulating in Europe and the United States, leading to an increase in cases, particularly in Japan's Kanto region.
While the situation warrants attention, authorities urge travelers to remain calm and practice basic hygiene measures to minimize the risk of infection. There is no need to cancel travel plans to Japan, as long as proper precautions are taken.