Yokohama

1. Recommended Vaccinations for Residents and Visitors

For Visitors:

• Routine Vaccinations: Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza.
• Hepatitis A: Recommended for most travelers, as it can be contracted through contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B: Recommended if you plan to stay long-term, work in healthcare, or engage in activities that may expose you to blood or bodily fluids.
• Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended if you plan to visit rural areas or stay for an extended period, especially during the summer months.
• Rabies: Recommended for travelers engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, as rabies can be transmitted by wild animals.
• Seasonal Influenza: Highly recommended during flu season (November to March), as Japan experiences significant flu outbreaks.

For Residents:

• Routine Childhood Vaccinations: Japan’s national immunization program covers vaccines for diseases such as polio, measles, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and tuberculosis (BCG). These are mandatory for children.
• HPV Vaccine: Available for adolescents and young adults to prevent cervical cancer.
• Pneumococcal Vaccine: Recommended for older adults (65+) and those with chronic illnesses.
• Shingles Vaccine: Recommended for older adults to prevent shingles and its complications.

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2. Costs of Vaccinations

• National Immunization Program (NIP): Vaccines under the NIP are free for residents, including children and eligible adults. These include routine childhood vaccines and some adult vaccines like influenza for seniors.
• Non-NIP Vaccines: Vaccines not covered by the NIP, such as Japanese encephalitis for adults, rabies, or HPV for older individuals, are paid out-of-pocket. Costs vary:
  • Japanese Encephalitis: ¥5,000–¥10,000 per dose.
  • Rabies: ¥10,000–¥15,000 per dose.
  • Influenza: ¥3,000–¥5,000 per dose.
  • HPV: ¥15,000–¥30,000 per dose.

Health Insurance Considerations:

• If you are a resident enrolled in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employee Health Insurance, some preventative care services may be subsidized. However, most travel-related vaccines are not covered.

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3. Procedures for Accessing Vaccinations

For Visitors:

1. Before Arrival: It is recommended to get travel-related vaccines (e.g., Japanese encephalitis, rabies) in your home country, as they may not be readily available in Japan.
2. In Yokohama: If you need vaccinations during your stay, visit an international clinic or hospital. Many facilities in Yokohama cater to English-speaking patients.

For Residents:

1. Vaccination Schedule for Children: Parents receive a vaccination schedule from their local ward office (kuyakusho). Vaccinations are administered at designated clinics or hospitals.
2. Adult Vaccinations: Residents can consult their local ward office or healthcare provider for information on available vaccines and subsidies.
3. Booking Appointments: Vaccinations are typically by appointment. Call the clinic or hospital in advance to confirm availability and costs.

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4. Clinics and Hospitals Offering Vaccination Services in Yokohama

Yokohama has numerous clinics and hospitals that provide vaccination and preventative care services. Below are some recommended facilities:

International Clinics:

1. Yokohama City Minato Red Cross Hospital (横浜市立みなと赤十字病院)

   • Services: Routine and travel vaccinations, general healthcare.
   • Language Support: English-speaking staff available.
   • Location: 3-12-1 Shinyamashita, Naka-ku, Yokohama.
   • Website: Minato Red Cross Hospital

2. Yokohama Clinic

   • Services: Travel vaccinations, health check-ups, and general medical care.
   • Language Support: English-speaking doctors.
   • Location: 2-23-2 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama.
   • Website: Yokohama Clinic

Local Clinics:

1. Yokohama Municipal Health and Medical Center

   • Services: Routine vaccinations for residents, including children and seniors.
   • Location: 1-1 Sakuragicho, Naka-ku, Yokohama.

2. Ward Health Centers (保健所 - Hokenjo):

   • Each ward in Yokohama has a health center that provides information on vaccinations and preventative care. Contact your local ward office for details.

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5. Cultural and Local Practices in Preventative Care

• Preventative Health Culture: Japan places a strong emphasis on preventative care. Regular health check-ups (kenkō shindan) are common and often subsidized by employers or the government. These check-ups may include vaccinations, blood tests, and screenings for chronic diseases.
• Seasonal Influenza Vaccination: Many residents get flu shots annually, especially during the winter months. Employers and schools often encourage this practice.
• Politeness and Masks: During flu season or illness outbreaks, wearing masks is a cultural norm to prevent the spread of disease. This practice is widely accepted and encouraged in Yokohama.
• Health Awareness Campaigns: Local governments and clinics frequently run campaigns to promote vaccinations and preventative care, especially for influenza and pneumococcal diseases.

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6. Tips for Navigating Preventative Care in Yokohama

• Language Support: While many clinics in Yokohama cater to English-speaking patients, it’s helpful to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or use translation apps if needed.
• Documentation: Bring your vaccination records (translated into Japanese if possible) to ensure continuity of care.
• Local Ward Office: For residents, your ward office is an excellent resource for information on free or subsidized vaccinations and health services.
• Travel Clinics: If you are a visitor, prioritize international clinics for travel-related vaccines, as they are more likely to stock them and provide English support.

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By following this guide, you can confidently access vaccinations and preventative care in Yokohama, ensuring a safe and healthy stay in the city. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!