💉 Shingles Vaccine Is Now Routine (Age 65+)

❓ What changed?

Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the chickenpox virus, which lingers in the body and reactivates when age or fatigue weakens the immune system. It brings severe pain and can leave lasting nerve pain called post-herpetic neuralgia. Until now the vaccine was optional and fully self-paid, but from April 2025 it became a routine immunization (Category B) under the Immunization Act, so you can be vaccinated with a municipal subsidy. It mainly targets people who turn 65 during the fiscal year. For the five years through FY2029, a transitional measure also covers those turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 that year. People aged 60-64 with severe immune impairment from HIV and the like are eligible too.

👥 Who is eligible?

• ●Residents turning 65 during the fiscal year (foreign residents with a resident record included)
• ●Transitional (through FY2029): those turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100
• ●People aged 60-64 with severe immune impairment from HIV, etc.
• ●Vaccination is voluntary, up to you (no legal duty to get it)

🌏 Impact on foreign residents

If you have a resident record in Japan and fall in an eligible age, you can be vaccinated with the public subsidy even as a foreigner. Municipalities usually mail eligible people a notice (voucher or letter), but if none arrives or you have just moved, ask your city's public health center. The co-pay, subsidy, and approved clinics differ by municipality. Because you qualify only during that fiscal year (for example, the year you turn 65), missing the window means dropping out of routine coverage and paying the full price, so consider it promptly once your notice arrives.