Immunization Act

This document describes the vaccination scheme for Japan. From 1948 through 1994, childhood vaccinations were obligatory, however, from 1994 onward, they have been classified as recommended. The law does allow for a minister to apply "temporary vaccinations" to an area in the case of a public health emergency. There is however, no discernible enforcement mechanism for this emergency vaccination. Japanese citizens that fail to vaccinate in accordance with the vaccine schedule may be subject to pay for the vaccinations themselves and may not be able to apply for liability payments if their child is harmed by vaccination.