Several more idols down with influenza, injury

The influenza virus continues to spread throughout the entertainment industry, especially among the idol groups. Within the last week, several new cases have been reported, leading to canceled performances.

Berryz Koubou has been hit the hardest. On Wednesday, Momoko Tsugunaga (17) was the first one reported to have the flu, but four other members followed in quick succession: Miyabi Natsuyaki (17), Maasa Sudo (17), Risako Sugaya (15), and Saki Shimizu (17). Only two of the group’s seven members have not yet been infected.

AKB48 also experienced a couple of new cases this week: Mayu Watanabe (15) and Reina Fujie (15). However, the latest idol to take ill is °C-ute’s Saki Nakajima (15).

Meanwhile, AKB48′s Natsuki Sato (19) is also taking a break, but her absence is due to a left leg injury, not influenza.