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The most effective way to prevent the flu is through vaccination. Each year, a new flu vaccine is released that targets the most common strains of the virus circulating in Japan. It’s recommended that everyone, especially those in high-risk categories, get the flu shot. Vaccines are available at clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies across the country.

• Tip : Vaccination takes about two weeks to become fully effective, so get your shot as soon as possible to ensure protection throughout the season.

Maintaining proper hygiene can go a long way in preventing the flu from spreading.

• Wash Your Hands : Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes : Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow to cover your nose and mouth. Dispose of tissues properly, and wash your hands afterward.

• Avoid Touching Your Face: Flu viruses can spread easily when they come into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth, so avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of infection.

During flu season, it’s wise to avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of illness, such as coughing, sneezing, or a fever. If you can, maintain a one-meter distance from anyone who appears unwell, and avoid crowded places when possible.

• Ventilate Your Space : Open windows to let fresh air circulate and help reduce the concentration of airborne viruses.

• Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces: Frequently clean items such as doorknobs, light switches, and your phone, as these can easily carry germs.

If you start feeling flu-like symptoms, it’s important to act quickly. Early treatment can help reduce the severity of the illness and prevent complications. Here's what you should do :

1. Stay Home and Rest

If you suspect you have the flu, stay home to rest and recover. Avoid going to work, school, or public places to prevent spreading the virus to others. Stay in a separate room if possible, and limit contact with others in your household.

2. Seek Medical Help

• Consult a Doctor : If you develop flu symptoms such as a fever, chills, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue, contact a doctor. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the flu, but they must be taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

• Emergency Care : If symptoms worsen, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent fever, seek medical help immediately.

3. Stay Hydrated and Rest

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and support your recovery. Resting is crucial for your body to fight off the virus.

If you’re visiting Japan as a tourist during the flu season, it's important to take the same preventive steps to avoid contracting or spreading the flu. In addition, here are a few specific tips for tourists :

1. Get Vaccinated Before Your Trip

While Japan’s seasonal flu vaccine is available for residents, tourists are encouraged to get vaccinated before traveling. If you’re planning to visit Japan during flu season, it’s best to get the flu vaccine in your home country prior to your trip. Most countries offer flu vaccinations to travelers, and it’s an important step for protecting yourself while abroad.

2. Pack Essential Hygiene Items

Be sure to carry essential hygiene products, such as hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and tissues, with you while traveling. These will help you stay clean and hygienic, especially in crowded areas like airports, public transport, and tourist attractions.

3. Monitor Your Health

If you start feeling unwell while in Japan, don’t ignore it. Seek medical help immediately if you notice flu-like symptoms. Japan has a robust healthcare system, and many hospitals and clinics offer services in English for international tourists.

• Tourist Health Insurance : If you’re not already covered, make sure to get travel health insurance that includes medical treatment for illnesses like the flu. This will provide peace of mind and ensure you can receive care without worrying about the cost.

4. Follow Local Guidelines

If you're feeling unwell while visiting Japan, follow local guidelines regarding quarantine, medical treatment, and self-isolation. If you’re sick, it’s important to stay in your accommodation until you're no longer contagious. Local authorities may have additional recommendations or restrictions, so stay informed during your stay.