Alarming Rise in Cases of Deadly "Flesh-Eating Bacteria" in Japan

OSAKA, Mar 11 (News On Japan) - The rare infection known as "flesh-eating bacteria," or severe streptococcal infection, has a mortality rate of 30%. Last year, the number of patients reached a record high of 941, and this year the pace is on track to be the worst yet.

Professor Yasutoshi Kido, an infectious disease expert at Osaka Public University Graduate School, explains the symptoms, transmission routes, and treatment methods.

According to Professor Kido, the bacteria are common and usually harmless, but when they turn virulent, the disease can progress rapidly. "You might feel something is off in the morning, and by evening you could lose consciousness," he says. "If the progression cannot be stopped with medication, surgical amputation of the arm may be necessary." He advises that if swelling worsens noticeably in a short period, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Source: MBS NEWS

Japan Troops Begin Bear Countermeasures

The worsening string of bear incidents across Akita Prefecture has prompted the deployment of the Ground Self-Defense Force to assist in countermeasures. On November 5th, fifteen members of the 21st Infantry Regiment based at the Akita garrison were sent to Kazuno City, where they began support activities such as transporting box traps for capturing bears.

Kamiya Faces Takaichi in First Diet Debate Over Foreign Worker Policy

In the House of Councillors on November 6th, Prime Minister Takaichi faced her first major challenge from Sanseito leader Sohei Kamiya, who took the podium for the first time to question the government’s stance on accepting foreign workers. Both share conservative leanings, and Kamiya had been approached by Takaichi for cooperation during the prime ministerial election, but the session quickly turned into a pointed exchange over immigration and national priorities.

Typhoon No. 26 Forming, May Impact Japan

As of 3 p.m. on November 5th, a tropical depression over the sea near the Caroline Islands was slowly moving northward, with the Japan Meteorological Agency forecasting that it would develop into a typhoon within the next 24 hours. Once it forms, it will be designated as Typhoon No. 26.

Morning-After Pill to Be Sold Over the Counter by Year-End

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Crimes by U.S. Military Personnel Hit Record High in Okinawa

The number of U.S. military personnel arrested for criminal offenses in Okinawa has reached 77 so far this year, already surpassing the record total for all of 2024 as of the end of September.

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