Japan – A flu epidemic is driving up humidifier sales during a record dry spell that started in January.
Maintaining a humidity level of between 50 percent and 60 percent indoors is said to reduce chances of catching the virus.
Mid-range items costing between 5,000 yen ($45) and 10,000 yen that have a high speed humidifying function are big sellers.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the Pacific Ocean side of the archipelago has experienced prolonged sunny weather this winter and continuously dry conditions.
Many areas in the Kanto region had less than 20 percent of average rainfall in January.
Although the flu season is expected to end this month, more misery is on the way with the arrival of hay fever season in spring.
Source and full English article: The Asahi Shimbun
http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201902100001.html
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