Shingles vaccine added to routine immunisation (for people aged 65 and others, in force in FY2025)
Source material is a Japanese government announcement (in Japanese); this page is a summary.
From FY2025 (April 2025), the shingles vaccine became part of routine immunisation under the Immunisation Act for people aged 65 and others.
Key facts
| Start | From FY2025 (2025-04-01) |
|---|---|
| Basis | Routine immunisation under the Immunisation Act |
| Main groups covered | People turning 65 / people aged 60 to 64 with an immune function disability caused by HIV that makes daily life almost impossible |
| Transitional arrangements (FY2025 to FY2029) | People turning 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 or 100 during the year / everyone aged 100 and over in FY2025 only |
| Vaccine and number of doses | Live vaccine, 1 subcutaneous dose, or recombinant vaccine, 2 intramuscular doses (at least 2 months apart); choose one type |
| Responsible body | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (厚生労働省) |
Last checked:
From FY2025, shingles vaccination for people aged 65 and others became part of routine immunisation under the Immunisation Act. The main groups covered are people turning 65 and people aged 60 to 64 who have an immune function disability caused by HIV that makes daily life almost impossible. Under transitional arrangements for the 5 years from FY2025 to FY2029, people who turn 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 or 100 during the year are also covered (everyone aged 100 and over is covered in FY2025 only). You receive one of two vaccine types: the live vaccine (1 subcutaneous dose) or the recombinant vaccine (2 intramuscular doses at least 2 months apart).
Summaries below are factual notes based on government announcements and primary sources — not evaluations or opinions.
Summaries reflect national-level programs. Municipal (city/ward/town) programs may differ — confirm with the official desk before applying.
FAQ
Who is covered by routine immunisation?
People turning 65, people aged 60 to 64 with an immune function disability caused by HIV that makes daily life almost impossible, and, under the transitional arrangements for FY2025 to FY2029, people who turn 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 or 100 during the year. Everyone aged 100 and over is covered in FY2025 only.
How many doses do you get?
The live vaccine is 1 subcutaneous dose and the recombinant vaccine is 2 intramuscular doses at least 2 months apart. You choose one of the two types.
How much do you have to pay?
The period in which it is offered and the cost vary by local authority. Check the exact amount with the local authority where you live.