New infectious diseases (new strains of influenza, etc.)（新たな感染症（新型インフルエンザ等）について）

When a new infectious disease that was previously unknown breaks out, most people will not have any immunity (resistance) to it. This means there is a risk that it will rapidly spread and trigger a pandemic. New strains of influenza are an example of new infectious diseases. New strains of influenza occur in cycles of around 10 to 40 years, and their antigenicity varies greatly from that of seasonal influenza, which usually spreads in winter. Once a new strain of influenza breaks out, there is a risk that many people will become seriously ill. There are also types of influenza that were prevalent in the past but which disappeared for a while, only to start spreading again, which are called re-emerging influenza. Together, these are collectively referred to as “new strains of influenza, etc.” It is impossible to predict when and where an infectious disease will occur, or exactly what kind of disease it will be. It is important for each and every one of us to be prepared at all times with the correct knowledge, and to take measures to prevent infection and stop the spread of infection when a new infectious disease (such as new strains of influenza, etc.) occurs.