The impact of the H1N1 influenza is increasing across the nation. According to the health ministry, in the week ending Sept. 13 an estimated 180,000 people in Japan were diagnosed with influenza — some 30,000 more than in the previous week — with most cases suspected to be the new flu strain. The current figure is most likely significantly higher. The ministry estimates are projected from the reports of some 5,000 medical institutions. In the week ending Sept. 20 they reported 23,275 new flu cases, up by more than 50 percent from the previous week.
Globally, the World Health Organization reports that more than 3,000 people have died of the H1N1 flu. Compared to ordinary influenza, the new flu spreads at an equivalent speed or slightly faster, and the mortality rate among N1H1 sufferers is equal or slightly lower.
The health ministry fears that the new strain's peak may see some 760,000 people develop symptoms every day. Since most sufferers of the new flu are likely to have mild cases, individuals should do what they can to keep infection at bay: avoid crowds, wash hands frequently and, should they contract the flu, wear a mask. However, the worst case scenario could see medical institutions overrun by serious cases.