The number of dengue fever cases in Japan continues to rise with 55 new cases in Tokyo.

Over the past week, cases from as far away as Aomori and Osaka were also reported. All the victims have one thing in common--they all visited Tokyo's largest outdoor space, the Yoyogi Park.

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Health authorities closed large areas of the park following fumigation using more than 200 gallons of insecticide, The Telegraph reported.

They've also identified mosquito specimens that are carriers of the deadly dengue virus strain, according to CNN.  The park remains open for business but is dotted with signs warning visitors to protect themselves from mosquito bites. White nets to collect mosquito samples have been placed in the park.

Earlier this week, models filming for a Japanese variety show at the park were struck down by the virus. CBS confirmed that models Eri Aoki, 25, and Saaya, 20, were filming before the alarm was raised.

Most of those hit by the disease recovered within days of contracting dengue, although a few are still recovering in hospitals.

Considered endemic in most tropical countries, the disease is back after Japan's last dengue case in 1945.

According to Takeshi Kurosu, an assistant professor at Osaka University, the dengue outbreak may have been imported into Tokyo by an infected individual, subsequently transmitting the virus to domestic mosquitoes.

Kurosu also cited the possibility the infected mosquito was transported into the country in a bag, although it's highly likely it was an infected person who imported the disease, according to CNN.        

Japan's health minister Norihisa Tamura warned locals of the possibility of a higher number of cases.

"I ask that people remain calm," said minister Tamura, downplaying the possibility of an epidemic. 

Tagstokyo dengue outbreak, dengue outbreak