This article provides a clear explanation of the timing, cost, and subsidy system for influenza vaccinations.
This articleSystem as of November 2025It is created based on the above.
The latest content isOfficial website of the local governmentPlease check.
Have you had your flu vaccination?
We have compiled the latest information in an easy-to-understand format regarding the influenza suspension period and guidelines for returning to school in 2025, as well as the timing, effectiveness, and cost of vaccinations.
"When can I go to school?" "How many days should I take off?" "When should I get vaccinated?"
We will carefully answer your frequently asked questions.
We also introduce local government subsidy programs and key infection prevention measures that can be taken at home.
By reading this article, you will have a complete understanding of all the information you need to prepare for influenza in 2025.
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With vaccinations and everyday precautions, you can spend the winter safely.
- 🌡️ When will the flu epidemic occur in 2025? Trends in epidemic timing
- Incubation period for influenza and suspension period
- How many days is the incubation period?
- When does the suspension of work/attendance period start and end?
- 📌 What if symptoms persist?
- 📌 What should I do if my sibling has the flu and goes to school?
- FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Actual examples of the "Doctor's opinion" and "Kindergarten attendance notification" provided by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
- 💉 When should you get a flu vaccination? When is it effective?
- 2025 Edition | Summary of Influenza Vaccination Costs and Subsidies by Municipality
- 🏔 Hokkaido | Summary of Influenza Vaccination Subsidy Programs FY2025
- 🏙 Minato Ward, Tokyo | Influenza vaccination subsidy for seniors FY2025
- 🏙 Minato Ward, Tokyo | Subsidy for influenza vaccinations for children FY2025
- <Kanto Area> Subsidies for influenza vaccinations for children
- 🌸 Osaka City | Influenza Vaccination Subsidy Program for Seniors FY2025
- 🌸 Osaka Prefecture | Subsidies for Influenza Vaccinations for Children (Takatsuki City and Minoh City) FY2025
- Also check out the subsidy system offered by your workplace's health insurance association!
- Systematize "expense confirmation"
- Summary of side effects and simultaneous administration with the coronavirus vaccine
- 💡Not just vaccinations! Prevent influenza at home [3 habits to prevent infection]
- summary:Vaccination should be early, reliable, and for the whole family
- source
🌡️ When will the flu epidemic occur in 2025? Trends in epidemic timing
Announced on October 3, 2025Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Infectious Disease InformationAccording to the Infectious Disease Trend Survey from September 22nd to September 28th,Number of reports per fixed pointIt was stated that the influenza season has begun again this year, as the index reached 1.04, exceeding the 1.00 mark that indicates the start of an influenza epidemic.
📌What is the “number of reports per fixed point”?
For influenza, the number of patients is reported weekly by designated medical institutions (approximately 5,000 locations) across the country.
this How many cases were reported per sentinel site? The number shown is the "number of reports per fixed point."
- 1.0 or higherThe epidemic began
- 10 or moreIt's now a big hit
- 20 to 30 or moreIn some areas, it is a major epidemic
Therefore, the national average of 1.04 is above the 1.0 mark, which is the indicator for the start of an epidemic, and it can be determined that the epidemic season has begun nationwide at this point.
Comparison of epidemic timing with the outbreak situation in 2024
According to a press release on influenza from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of reported cases per fixed point, which is considered to be the start of the influenza season last year (2024), exceeded 1.00 in the 44th week (October 28th to November 3rd).
Therefore, the outbreak is about one month earlier than usual, and is expected to spread from October to December.
*The number of reported cases per sentinel site for the 2024/2025 season exceeded 40 as of December 16, 2024. (Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)Trends in the number of influenza cases reported per sentinel)
The latest data from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (as of November 7th) shows the number of cases reported per fixed point.
According to the latest data from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (published on November 7, 2025), the number of reported influenza cases per designated influenza point nationwide is "14.90" It says:
This figure is significantly higher than the "1.0" mark, which is considered the benchmark for an epidemic, and it can be said that the epidemic has already become full-scale nationwide.
In some areas, such as Hokkaido, Miyagi, Saitama, Kanagawa, and Okinawa, there are over 20 to 30 cases, which shows that there are large regional differences.
Incubation period for influenza and suspension period
How many days is the incubation period?
The incubation period for influenza is About 1-3 days It is said that...
Even if you are infected, you may not show symptoms immediately, and during this time you may be able to spread the virus to others.
however You will not be suspended from school during the incubation period.
Once the onset of symptoms (high fever and general symptoms) occurs, the suspension period will begin in accordance with the School Health and Safety Act.
When does the suspension of work/attendance period start and end?
If you have the flu, many people wonder how long they should stay home from school or work.
The period of suspension of attendance (work) is:School Health and Safety ActandJapan School Health AssociationIssued by
This is clearly stated in the ``Explanation of infectious diseases that should be prevented in schools.''
The period of absence from school due to influenza is set as "five days after the onset of symptoms and two days after the fever has subsided (three days for young children)."
source:Japan School Health Association "Explanation of infectious diseases to be prevented in schools" (Reiwa 5 edition)
📌 What if symptoms persist?
Even if the fever goes down, symptoms (cough, runny nose, fatigue) may remain.
According to the School Health and Safety Act, children can attend school if they have been sick for five days and two days (three days for infants) since the fever subsided.
- I have a strong cough and can't concentrate in class.
- My strength hasn't returned and I feel very tired
- Appetite has not returned
In such cases, we recommend that you do not force yourself to come to school and take the day off.
Especially if you continue coughing, there is a risk of droplets spreading to those around you.
Wear a mask and wash your hands frequently Please keep this in mind.
📌 What should I do if my sibling has the flu and goes to school?
If your siblings get the flu,If the student is healthy, they will not be suspended from school.
However, you should be careful if:
- spent a lot of time in the same room
- The person has mild symptoms (sore throat, fatigue)
→ Take your temperature early and seek medical advice if you have any symptoms.
Measures to prevent infection within the household:
- Wearing a mask
- Avoid sharing towels
- Disinfecting doorknobs and handrails
- ventilation
Children are particularly susceptible to infection, so please be aware of the possibility of developing the disease. Daily temperature check and health check Make it a habit.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
❓ My fever has gone down but I still have a cough. Can I still come to school?
You can still attend school.
However, if your cough is so severe that it interferes with your classes or if your strength does not return, it is best not to push yourself.
❓ Do I need a certificate?
Many schools No need to submit a school attendance permit However, some kindergartens and schools may require you to submit it.
→ Be sure to Check handouts and notices from school let's.
Nurseries may require a doctor's note.
At nursery schools (daycare centers), when attending after recovery Doctor's opinion or Notification of attendance to be filled out by guardians You may be asked to submit the following.
This is indicated by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare"Guidelines for preventing infectious diseases in nursery schools"
(Page 13 including cover, page 8 of PDF)This is what is stated in the.
📝 Original guidelines (from page 8)
"We will inform children that when they recover from an infectious disease and return to school, they will need a doctor's opinion or a school attendance notification form filled out by their guardians, and we will ask them to submit these as necessary."
Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and WelfareGuidelines for preventing infectious diseases in nursery schools"
Page 13 from the cover (page 8 in the PDF)
Therefore,
- Elementary school: In principle, no medical certificate or opinion is required (only school attendance criteria)
- Nursery school: Some nurseries require submission of a statement of opinion
This is the difference that arises.
The conditions for resuming attendance at school vary from school to school, so it is best to follow the newsletters and instructions provided by the school.
Actual examples of the "Doctor's opinion" and "Kindergarten attendance notification" provided by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
Doctor's opinion
A doctor's opinion may be required depending on the type of infectious disease and the nursery's operations.
In particular, the nursery school may require you to take medicines for influenza, hand, foot and mouth disease, and respiratory syncytial virus.
School attendance notification completed by guardians
Depending on the nursery school, a "child attendance form completed by the guardian" may be sufficient instead of a doctor's opinion.
On the other hand, there are some kindergartens that require you to submit both documents, so be sure to check the instructions of the kindergarten your child attends.
For infectious diseases, including influenza, the criteria for determining recovery and allowing children to return to school may vary depending on the school.
While referring to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare guidelines, ultimately be sure to follow the instructions of your doctor and nursery school.
💉 When should you get a flu vaccination? When is it effective?
Schedule for starting vaccinations
The influenza vaccine isApproximately 5 monthsIt is said to have a certain degree of effectiveness over a long period of time, and immunity to the virus is developed within 1 to 2 weeks after the first vaccination, and high immune function is said to continue for 2 to 3 months.
In Japan, the peak season usually starts around January, so most medical institutions offer influenza vaccinations.Vaccinations will begin at medical institutions nationwide from early October.This is why we do this.
However, this year the outbreak is occurring one month earlier than usual.
Regarding hospital appointments, reservations can be busy during influenza season, and we recommend making reservations and getting vaccinated early, especially for children aged 6 months to under 13 years, as they require two vaccinations.
Important points regarding vaccination timing
Not too early, but not too late
I got my children vaccinated on December 21st last year (2024), but just a week later, at the end of the year, I ended up catching the flu (lol). It was too late.
Reflecting on that experience, in 2025, I completed my children's first vaccination and my own vaccination on October 10th 👍️✨️ (My children's second vaccination was on November 10th *It is recommended to wait four weeks after the first vaccination.)
The vaccination is given once for adults and twice for those under 13 years of age.
Adults (13 years and older) receive one dose, while those under 13 receive two doses.
If you are under 13 years old, you will need to schedule your second vaccination 2 to 4 weeks after the first vaccination. Two vaccinations are required because it has been reported that a higher antibody titer (amount of antibodies that can be measured by blood tests) is achieved after two vaccinations.Booster EffectIt is called.
To maximize the immune effect, it is recommended to wait at least four weeks after the first vaccination.
2025 Edition | Summary of Influenza Vaccination Costs and Subsidies by Municipality
*Reference price as of November 2025.
Some municipalities have subsidy programs, so we recommend checking your local municipality's website for details, but we have provided an example below for your reference.
🏔 Hokkaido | Summary of Influenza Vaccination Subsidy Programs FY2025
*Even during the implementation period, vaccination dates may vary depending on the medical institution. Routine vaccinations are only available once during the implementation period.
Fee exemption targets and required documents
| Target category | Certificates to bring | remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Households receiving welfare benefits | Public assistance certificate/Notice of change in welfare status, etc. | Latest |
| Households exempt from municipal tax | Late-stage elderly medical insurance card (premium premiums 1 to 3 levels), etc. | Within the expiration date |
*Created based on information as of November 2025. Please check the official Sapporo City website for the latest information.
👶 Child Grants
For children (elementary school students and infants), the city's official information does not currently state that subsidies are available, and vaccinations are given as optional vaccinations, with the cost often determined by the medical institution and borne by the patient. Please check with the medical institution where you will be receiving treatment or the city's official website for details.
👉 Sapporo City official website
🏙 Minato Ward, Tokyo | Influenza vaccination subsidy for seniors FY2025
*During the vaccination periodUp to 1 timePlease use the ward's pre-examination form at a ward-designated medical institution.
Key Points (Elderly People)
| item | Content |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | 65 years old or older / 60-64 years old with the above functional disability (equivalent to Grade 1) |
| Number of vaccinations | During the period1 time |
| Self-payment | free |
| Required documents | Ward-issuedVaccination Pre-examination Form(within the expiration date) |
| Examples of self-paid expenses | Second or later visit/Pre-examination slip has expired/Within the 23 wardsNot specifiedNot using medical institutions/ward pre-examination forms/pre-examination forms issued other than those in fiscal year 2025, etc. |
※This block isAs of November 2025Created based on the Minato Ward Guide. Please check the official Minato Ward website for the latest information.
🏙 Minato Ward, Tokyo | Subsidy for influenza vaccinations for children FY2025
*Subsidies are available at medical institutions.4,500 yen discountThe difference in cost must be paid by the patient. There is no reimbursement system.
Main Points (Children)
| item | Content |
|---|---|
| Age range | Ages 6 months to 3rd year high school students (residents of Minato Ward on the day of vaccination) (those born between April 2, 2007 and July 1, 2025) |
| Number of grants |
HA vaccine (subcutaneous injection): ・6 months to under 13 years old =2 times/ 13 years old or older ~ equivalent to 3rd year high school =1 time FluMist (nasal spray): Ages 2 to 3rd year of high school =1 time *In the same fiscal yearSubsidies for the combined use of HA and FluMist are not available.(One of the following) |
| Grant amount | per time4,500 yen(The difference is to be paid by the participant) |
| Required documents | 2020 Minato WardChild voluntary vaccination pre-examination form(Sent individually in late September) / Maternal and Child Health Handbook / Identification documents |
| Precautions | Subsidies are not available if you do not have a Minato Ward designated pre-examination form. Vaccinations before moving to Minato Ward and vaccinations after moving out are not subsidized. Implementation dates vary by medical institution. |
※This block isAs of November 2025Created based on the Minato Ward Guide. Please check the official Minato Ward website for the latest information.
<Kanto Area> Subsidies for influenza vaccinations for children
In Tokyo,If you received the vaccination at a designated medical institution within the wardSome wards offer subsidies for influenza vaccinations for children (from infants to high school students). (Minato Ward offers a subsidy of 4,500 yen per vaccination.) Additionally, some wards will also be subsidizing the nasal attenuated live influenza vaccine (Flumist® nasal spray) from fiscal year 2025.
For details, please check the official website of your ward.
🌸 Osaka City | Influenza Vaccination Subsidy Program for Seniors FY2025
*Those who are not eligible will be vaccinated voluntarily (full self-pay).
Key Points (Elderly People)
| item | Content |
|---|---|
| Self-pay amount | 1,500 yen (for eligible individuals) |
| Free items | Households receiving welfare benefits/households exempt from resident tax (free with proof) |
| Number of vaccinations | Once during the implementation period |
| Target Audience | ① 65 years of age or older ② Those aged 60 to 64 with severe disabilities in the heart, kidneys, respiratory system, or immune system (equivalent to a Class 1 Physical Disability Certificate) |
| Precautions | If you receive the second vaccination outside of this period, you will be responsible for the full cost. The start and end dates may vary depending on the medical institution. |
Fee exemption targets and required documents
| Target category | Certificates to bring | remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Households receiving welfare benefits | Public assistance certificate/Notice of change in welfare status, etc. | Latest |
| Households exempt from municipal tax | Nursing care insurance decision notice (insurance premiums 1 to 4 stages) / Burden limit certificate, etc. | Present at medical institution |
*Based on official information from Osaka City as of November 2025.
👶 Child Grants
Osaka City does not provide subsidies for influenza vaccinations for children, but some municipalities have their own subsidy programs. Please check the website of your local government. 😉 Here are some excerpts:
🌸 Osaka Prefecture | Subsidies for Influenza Vaccinations for Children (Takatsuki City and Minoh City) FY2025
*The target age, method, and precautions vary depending on the local government. Please check the official announcements of each city for the latest information.
Comparison Table
| city ward | Subsidy amount and method | Age range | Number of vaccinations | Implementation period | remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Takatsuki City | Per vaccination1,000 yenGrant | As of the date of vaccination6 months old to 3rd year of junior high school |
Under 13: 2 times/13 years old and over: 1 time in principle *Subsidies are available if a doctor determines two sessions are necessary. |
October 1, 2020 - January 31, 2020 | detail:Takatsuki City: Partial Subsidy for Children's Influenza Vaccination Costs |
| Minoh City |
2 x 1,000 yen discount couponssent to the target person Use one coupon per vaccination (total of 2 vaccinations for 2,000 yen) *FlumistVaccinationTwo at a timeCan be used up to (subsidy is only available once) |
On the day of vaccination6 months old to 6th gradeCitizens of | Under 13 years old: 2 doses (2-4 week intervals) / 13 years old and over: 1 dose | October 1, 2020 - January 31, 2020 | detail:Minoh City "Subsidizes the cost of influenza vaccinations for children" |
※ (As of November 2025For details, please check the latest information from each city.
Also check out the subsidy system offered by your workplace's health insurance association!
In addition to subsidies from your local government, some health insurance associations (e.g., Toyota Health Insurance) also subsidize vaccination costs.
For example, the Japan Pension Service Health Insurance Society provides subsidies of up to 3,000 yen per person, and the Toyota Dealers Union Health Insurance Society provides subsidies of up to 2,000 yen per person (once per fiscal year). Please check the official website to see if your own health insurance society also offers subsidies.
Japan Pension Service Health Insurance Association
Toyota Dealer Association Health Insurance Association Influenza Vaccination Subsidy Program
In addition, Kagoshima City does not have its own subsidy system for influenza vaccinations, but some medical institutions and health insurance associations that are members of the Kagoshima Prefectural Medical Association may have their own subsidy systems in place.
Kagoshima Prefecture Dentist National Health Insurance Association Influenza Vaccination Subsidy
Systematize "expense confirmation"
Flu vaccinations are a hot topic as winter approaches, but it can be a hassle to research the costs, which vary depending on the medical institution. Some people may also think, "Even if I get vaccinated, it's pointless if I get a different type of flu virus."
Assuming you have already been vaccinated, I have compiled a list of about four nearby clinics, like this one. Having a list like this will help you, as all you need to do is check their websites every year to see if there have been any changes.
| Hospital name | A Clinic | B clinic | C internal medicine | D Otolaryngology |
| reservation | Essential | Unnecessary | Online reservation | Unnecessary |
| Under 13 (1) | 2,500 | 1,750 | 2,750 | 2,000 |
| Under 13 (2) | 2,000 | 1,750 | 2,750 | 2,000 |
| Under 65 years old | 3,000 | 3,500 | 3,300 | 3,000 |
| total* | 15,000 | 14,000 | 17,600 | 14,000 |
*For a family of four, including two children under 13 (two doses each) and two adults.
We have also created the table below for those who are unsure whether to take the exam this year.
If you don't get sick, you can save time and money 🌸Just for your reference🌸
| Take two days off work | 19,200 | In the case of working 8 hours/day at the minimum wage (1,200 yen line) |
| Hospital visits, examinations, and pharmacy fees | 12,000 | Waiting at the hospital is tiring |
| total | 31,200 |
Summary of side effects and simultaneous administration with the coronavirus vaccine
Can it be administered at the same time as the coronavirus vaccine?
Influenza vaccinations can be administered at the same time as coronavirus vaccinations.
However, there may be requirements such as no reservation required for influenza vaccinations but a reservation required for coronavirus vaccinations, so please check with the clinic where you wish to receive the vaccination.
Side effects
Mild symptoms such as swelling and pain at the injection site, slight fever, and fatigue may occur temporarily, but these usually subside within 1 to 2 days.
Can I exercise after getting the vaccine?
Avoid strenuous exercise on the day of vaccination.Jogging and strength training can be done the next day or later.It is safe to do so.
💡Not just vaccinations! Prevent influenza at home [3 habits to prevent infection]
In addition to vaccinations, infection prevention measures that can be taken in daily life are also very important.
Masks, hand washing, humidifiersBasic influenza prevention methods such as the following are also recommended by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare:Influenza Q&A)
Here,Items I actually use in my homeHere we will introduce three items that will give you peace of mind.
(※Links include affiliate links) 🧴 3-piece basic infection prevention kit
Nonwoven mask
A basic item for when you go out.
The three-dimensional type is less likely to have gaps, so your glasses will not fog up or your makeup will not come off.
You can stay comfortable even for long periods of time.
- For those who want to "enjoy a clean look around the face + color" 👇️
I also bought this 3D mask (khaki) for myself ✨️
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- If you have ear pain easily, we recommend the wide ear strap type.
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Children's masks (for school lunches and school attendance)
For school lunches and going to school, it is convenient to have a cloth mask that can be washed and reused.
My two elementary school-aged daughters love using this. They love the colors and shape.
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Alcohol gel
When you're out and about, there are many situations where you can't wash your hands right away.
It's a good idea to have a bottle of alcohol gel that fits in your pocket or bag.
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Hand soap
Washing your hands after returning home is the most basic way to prevent the flu.
We will introduce one foam type that is easy for children to use, and one additive-free type for people with sensitive skin.
- If you want a foam type that everyone in the family can use, click here
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💡point:
"Mask + Hand Wash + Disinfect" are the three basic steps. Keep them in mind, especially when heading to crowded places.
📄 How to wash your hands properly✋️
For more information, please see the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's official document "How to wash your hands properly" 👇
summary:Vaccination should be early, reliable, and for the whole family
About vaccinations
- Vaccination begins: early October
- Duration of effect: Approximately 5 months
- Subsidy system: Varies depending on local government, company health insurance, and medical institution
Before appointments become too crowded, check with your doctor as soon as possible about simultaneous vaccinations and side effects.
Stay healthy this winter with small everyday tips
- Vaccination and daily infection prevention measures will help you build a body that is resistant to infection
- The basics are frequent hand washing, gargling, and humidification
- Maintain your immunity with proper nutrition and sleep
Be sure to make your reservation early before winter sets in.
I hope the whole family has a healthy winter.
💡Related articles
Dental health is also part of maintaining your body.
These days, you can even get your silver fillings whitened with insurance!
👉I want to whiten my silver fillings! Can I get it covered by insurance? A thorough explanation of the costs, methods, and latest regulations "
source
- Ministry of Health, Labour and WelfareInfluenza press releases(2024/2025 season)
- Announced on October 3, 2025Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Infectious Disease Information
- Environmental Restoration and Conservation Agency Column Q&A
- Sakano Clinic: Influenza vaccine vaccination intervals and precautions
- Osaka City Public Health Center and Ward Health and Welfare Centers: Influenza Vaccination Information
- Japan School Health Association "Explanation of infectious diseases to be prevented in schools" (Reiwa 5 edition)
- Public fee data for each medical institution
💡 This article is written for general information purposes.
Before actually receiving the vaccination, please consult your doctor or medical institution.
