The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in the United States has increased by 50%, and 80% of flu patients in Tokyo are minors

The latest data from the US CDC shows that COVID-19 JN.1 has a higher transmissibility and now accounts for more than 40% of new infections. Although it has not shown to be more virulent, hospitalizations have still increased by 50% in the past four weeks.

The year-end holiday in the United States has arrived, and travel and visiting relatives and friends have become more frequent. In contrast, the influenza vaccination rate in the United States is only 42%, and the COVID-19 booster shot and RSV vaccination for the elderly are also at very low levels, which are expected to reach around the New Year. The epidemic peak of various respiratory diseases.

NHK reported that Japan’s flu season started more than two months early. Antibody tests show that in the past, the influenza antibody carrying rate among minors exceeded 70%, but this year it is less than 40%. Affected by this, Tokyo reported that 80% of infections and 60% of hospitalized patients were minors. Infection among minors will contribute to the spread of the virus to the elderly at home.

Japan has also seen a significant increase in hemolytic Streptococcus and Brucella infections. Both diseases can be spread through droplets, and contact with infected people needs to be avoided.

To prevent infection, it is not too late to get vaccinated. Antibodies can be produced in about two weeks after vaccination, and immunity will be optimal after one or two months, just in time for the flu peak expected at the end of January. Seniors are also recommended to receive the pneumococcal vaccine, which is effective for up to 5 years and can reduce the risk of hospitalization by 50%. A nasal spray vaccine may be on the market by the end of 2024. It only needs one dose, so that children who are afraid of needles can also get vaccinated smoothly.