Why carry out the study?

Starting from the fall of 2024, Japan will be transitioning from the free-of-charge COVID-19 vaccination program to annual periodic vaccination under National Immunization Program (NIP) to be implemented by local governments for those aged 65 years and above, and those aged 60-64 years at high risk.

Because the periodic COVID-19 vaccination program requires out-of-pocket payment, the vaccination rate is feared to become lower than before, leading to concerns that the full benefits of the vaccine may not be realized.

This study evaluated the impact of changes in vaccination rates on the economy of local governments and the health of their citizens.

What was learned from the study?

Increase in the vaccination rate led to reduction in COVID-19-related symptomatic cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

Although increase in the vaccination rate led to increase in vaccine-related costs, non-vaccine-related medical costs and productivity losses decreased even more, leading to a net reduction in total costs.

It is hoped that, with consideration given to the public health benefits, the impact on healthcare finance and the entire local society, local governments in Japan will investigate and implement policies of promoting COVID-19 vaccination.