Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the hantavirus does not currently pose an immediate or significant threat to Japan [1].
The statement aims to prevent public panic by clarifying the current risk level while the government maintains surveillance of the virus's spread [1].
Kihara said the government is monitoring the situation closely and will ensure that infection control measures remain comprehensive [1]. He said the administration is tracking the virus to protect public health and maintain stability within the country.
To mitigate risks, the government is advising citizens to take specific precautions when traveling abroad. Kihara said travelers should avoid unnecessary contact with animals during their trips [1].
"At this point, I recognize that there is no situation in which our country will be immediately and significantly affected," Kihara said [1].
Officials are urging the public to remain calm and rely on official government communications for updates on the virus [1]. The government intends to provide transparent information to ensure citizens can respond appropriately to any changes in the risk profile.
“"At this point, I recognize that there is no situation in which our country will be immediately and significantly affected,"”
The Japanese government is attempting to balance public health preparedness with the need to prevent social instability. By framing the hantavirus as a manageable risk and focusing on traveler behavior, the administration is signaling that the threat is external rather than internal, thereby minimizing economic or social disruption while maintaining a state of vigilance.
