Latest flu cases: Audrey’s Kasuga, BEGIN’s Shimabukuro

At least two more celebrities have been affected by the spreading flu in Japan: Toshiaki Kasuga of the comedy duo Audrey and guitarist Masaru Shimabukuro of Okinawan band BEGIN.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that NEWS members Ryo Nishikido and Tomohisa Yamashita had been hit by the flu. NEWS had participated in the “24 Hour Television” telethon over the weekend, along with Audrey and many other celebrities. NTV has now urged caution to all of the attendees, as the flu may have easily spread during the event. Like Nishikido and Yamashita, Kasuga is taking a break from work. His flu was confirmed as type A, but it was not revealed whether it is the H1N1 virus (swine flu).

Meanwhile, Shimabukuro of BEGIN caught the flu in Fukuoka during the band’s current tour, though the type of flu was not mentioned. As a result, the band postponed three shows that were scheduled for August 31 in Fukuoka, September 2 in Yamaguchi, and September 4 in Oita. The concerts have been rescheduled for December 27, 26, and 24, respectively.