Foreign residents in Japan are being urged to check their vaccination status following a surge in measles cases across the Kanto region and the revelation that whooping cough claimed at least seven infant lives in 2025—the highest death toll in two decades. According to Livedoor News, multiple measles infections have been reported throughout the Kanto area, which includes Tokyo and surrounding prefectures. The highly contagious disease, known as "hashika" in Japanese, spreads through airborne transmission and can cause serious complications including pneumonia and encephalitis. The outbreak has raised concerns among health officials about vaccination coverage in the region. Simultaneously, NHK reported that whooping cough, or "hyakunichiseki," experienced a major outbreak in 2025, resulting in at least seven infant fatalities—the highest number of deaths from the disease in the past 20 years. Medical specialists emphasize that these deaths were preventable through proper vaccination, highlighting a critical gap in immunization coverage. For expats living in Japan, understanding the vaccination landscape is essential. Japan follows a specific immunization schedule that may differ from your home country's protocols. The measles vaccine is typically administered as part of the MR (measles-rubella) combination vaccine, with children receiving two doses: the first between 12-24 months and the second before entering elementary school. However, adults who have not received two doses or lack immunity should consider vaccination, especially given the current outbreak. Whooping cough vaccination is included in Japan's routine immunization program through the DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) or DPT-IPV (adding inactivated polio) vaccines. Infants receive a series of four doses starting at three months of age. The tragic deaths reported by NHK underscore the importance of timely vaccination for infants, as they are most vulnerable to severe complications from whooping cough before completing their vaccination series. Expat parents should be particularly vigilant about ensuring their children are up-to-date with vaccinations. Japan's public health centers (hokenjo) and municipal offices provide information about the national immunization schedule, and many vaccines are offered free of charge for children as part of the routine program. However, navigating the system can be challenging for non-Japanese speakers. Adults, especially those planning to have children or who have regular contact with infants, should verify their immunity status. Many countries recommend booster shots for pertussis (whooping cough) for adults, particularly pregnant women and those caring for newborns. In Japan, the Tdap booster (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) is available at private clinics, though it may not be covered by national health insurance. To protect yourself and your family, consider these steps: First, review your vaccination records and those of your children. If you're unsure about your immunity status, blood tests can determine whether you have adequate antibodies against measles. Second, consult with an English-speaking clinic or your local health center about catch-up vaccinations if needed. Many international clinics in major cities can provide guidance in English and other languages. Third, be aware of measles symptoms: high fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that spreads from the face downward. Whooping cough presents with severe coughing fits that can make it difficult to breathe, particularly dangerous for infants. If you suspect exposure or develop symptoms, seek medical attention promptly and inform healthcare providers of potential exposure. The current outbreaks serve as a stark reminder that vaccine-preventable diseases remain a serious public health threat. For the expat community in Japan, staying informed about local health alerts and maintaining up-to-date vaccinations is not only a personal health measure but also a community responsibility, particularly in protecting the most vulnerable members of society—infants too young to be fully vaccinated.