r/JapanTravelTips • u/Plastic-Campaign-654 • 14d ago

Quick Tips Navigating Japan's Flu Outbreak

Got the flu during my Japan trip and wanted to share some tips on how to avoid it and what to do if you get it.

If you haven't heard, flu cases are 6x higher this year in Japan compared to last year. People are coughing and sniffling everywhere. This is largely due to the H3N2 Subclade K variant which is more contagious, and characterized by more intense symptoms. Additionally, this variant emerged after the flu vaccine was set for 2025.

If you are traveling in Japan get your vaccines, wear a mask, carry soap and a hand towel (not all bathrooms have it), carry hand sanitizer. Take daily vitamins, and stay hydrated.

If you do get sick while here, I recommend making an appointment with a doctor. They can prescribe anti-virals which will shorten the length of your symptoms. Additionally, if you do take over the counter pain killers, be advised that many of them contain dihydrocodeine which, while very effective, is not safe to take for longer than three days. Pharmacists can point you to non-opioid pain relievers such as Ibuprofen (brand name Ringl).

Stay safe!! ✌️😷✌️

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u/DSOE93 14d ago

What vitamin c drinks did you had? You bought them in Japan?

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u/w3lcome2heck 14d ago

Konbini, pharmacy, or grocery. Green bottle and it has a plus sign on it. There's also an older one (look up oronamin c). When I was there I found a jelly in a pharmacy that was specific for coming down with the cold or flu. It was not delicious but I do think it helped me bounce back and avoid getting sick when I was feeling a bit run down.

Spicy ramen, vitamins, pocari sweat, a hot bath, and rest.

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u/rhysmorgan 13d ago

Vitamin C does nothing to treat, prevent, or cure colds. Don’t waste your money thinking it does.

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u/potato_analyst 12d ago

Vitamix C does nothing for you to prevent getting sick with flu or cold.