An Update on The Economic Impact of Adult Immunisation

By Staff Writer

April 24, 2024

Introduction: The Value of Adult Immunisation in Health Economics

In the face of mounting pressures on global healthcare systems, adult immunisation programmes emerge as a beacon of fiscal responsibility and preventative wisdom. Recent research from the Office of Health Economics (OHE) has illuminated the substantial economic benefits these programs offer across ten diverse countries including Australia, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Thailand, and the United States. With a return on investment of up to 19 times the initial outlay, the impact of adult immunisation stands as an exemplar of preventive healthcare, contributing to the development of a stronger and more resilient society.

Figure 1. Ten Countries Selected for this Analysis.

The Burden of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

Vaccine-preventable diseases continue to exert a significant toll on adult populations worldwide. The OHE research underscores the heavy impact of conditions like seasonal influenza, pneumococcal disease, and others on healthcare systems. Adult immunisation programs offer a formidable shield against these diseases, averting severe health outcomes and mortality, especially among the elderly and those with chronic conditions.

Adult Immunisation Economic Impact

The economic modelling conducted by the OHE reveals that adult immunisation programs are not only health-preserving but also cost-saving. By preventing hospitalisations and emergency care, these programs can lead to net cost savings for healthcare systems. For instance, one full vaccination course can yield up to $4637 in net monetary benefits per individual.

Societal and Productivity Gains

Beyond healthcare savings, adult immunisation programs contribute to societal wealth. By preventing disease, they enable individuals to maintain productivity, reducing the economic burden on caregivers and the wider community. This aligns with the broader goals of health and economic equity, particularly benefiting underserved communities.

Figure 2. Percentage of Countries for with Evidence of Positive Impact on Value

Recommendations and Future Directions

The OHE report culminates in key recommendations, advocating for a prevention-first approach and robust funding for adult immunisation. It calls for the expansion of these programs as part of a life-course immunisation strategy, emphasising the need for further research to fill existing evidence gaps and inform policy decisions.

Conclusion

Adult immunisation programs are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare, offering unmatched economic benefits. As healthcare systems confront increasing demands, these programs stand as a testament to the power of prevention, offering a sustainable path forward for societies worldwide

Reference url

Recent Posts

New Federal Actions to Combat Misleading Prescription Drug Ads in 2025

By João L. Carapinha

September 11, 2025

Misleading prescription drug ads have become a pressing concern in the United States, prompting decisive federal action. What are the new measures targeting deceptive pharmaceutical advertising, and how will these changes affect public health and healthcare costs? In September 2025, a
Ending Unproven Fertility Treatments: NICE Calls for Evidence-Based Care in Clinics

By João L. Carapinha

September 10, 2025

Unproven fertility treatments—a term referring to add-on procedures without robust clinical evidence—have come under renewed scrutiny in the UK. Many prospective parents want to know: Why are unproven fertility treatments being discouraged, and what does this mean for fertility clinic choices...
Medicare ACO Outcomes: Balancing Surgical Benefits and Costs Under the TEAM Model

By João L. Carapinha

September 9, 2025

Medicare ACO outcomes are a major focus for clinicians, policymakers, and researchers seeking to understand how Accountable Care Organization (ACO) assignment influences patient results and healthcare costs after surgery. Are ACOs improving quality and saving money for Medicare patients undergoin...