Society

Measles outbreak affecting tourism in Okinawa

Apr 21 (NHK) - An outbreak of measles in the Japanese prefecture of Okinawa is affecting local tourism ahead of the spring holiday season.

Okinawa officials say that by Thursday, 65 people had been confirmed infected with the disease. The outbreak started when a male tourist from Taiwan tested positive on March 20th.

The officials also say more than 170 people have cancelled trips to Okinawa.

The prefectural government is receiving about 30 inquiries a day from people and travel agencies about where infections are rampant and how to protect against the virus.

Prefectural official Masaru Itokazu says it's deeply regrettable that the outbreak started before the holiday season, but that the prefecture will give people accurate information.

Some schools in Okinawa are cancelling classes.

The prefectural government plans to hold an emergency meeting of all its division chiefs on Monday.

Measles causes high fever and rashes. It can be fatal for infants and toddlers, and may result in miscarriages.

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