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Related Experiment Videos

Progress and challenges for the Japanese immunization program: Beyond the "vaccine gap".

Akihiko Saitoh1, Nobuhiko Okabe2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan, 1-757 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8510 Japan.

Vaccine
|June 23, 2018
PubMed
Summary

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Japan

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Public Health
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • The Japanese immunization program has historically lagged behind other developed nations, creating a
  • Significant advancements have been made since 2014, including measles elimination and the routine inclusion of varicella and hepatitis B vaccines.
  • However, challenges persist, including the continued withdrawal of recommendations for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines and the exclusion of other vital vaccines from the National Immunization Program (NIP).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the progress and identify persistent challenges in the Japanese immunization program.
  • To highlight the impact of new vaccine introductions and policy changes on public health.
  • To recommend strategies for closing the
  • vaccine gap
  • and ensuring adequate vaccine supply.
Keywords:
Human papilloma virus vaccineImmunization programJapanMeasles eliminationVaccine gapVaccine shortageVaricella vaccinehepatitis B vaccine

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Main Methods:

  • Review of Japanese immunization program data and policy changes since 2014.
  • Analysis of vaccine introduction timelines and NIP inclusions.
  • Assessment of factors contributing to vaccine shortages and safety concerns.

Main Results:

  • Measles elimination achieved in March 2015.
  • Routine immunization with varicella vaccine (October 2015) and hepatitis B virus vaccines (October 2016) introduced into the NIP.
  • Persistent issues include the ongoing withdrawal of HPV vaccine recommendations, exclusion of mumps and rotavirus vaccines from the NIP, and domestic vaccine shortages due to manufacturing disruptions and falsified records.

Conclusions:

  • While Japan has made strides in its immunization program, critical challenges remain.
  • Addressing the vaccine gap requires continued efforts, including strategic stockpiling and open discussion of future vaccine needs.
  • Ensuring timely access to safe and effective vaccines is crucial for protecting children against vaccine-preventable diseases.