The Power of Prevention: The Untapped Potential of Adult Immunisation Programmes

By Staff Writer

January 1, 2024

The Unseen Value of Adult Immunisation

Adult immunisation programmes are often overlooked. But these are critical to addressing key health and societal challenges. A detailed review by the  Office of Health Economics (OHE) of these programmes has recently been conducted. Focusing on diseases such as seasonal influenza, pneumococcal disease, herpes zoster, and respiratory syncytial virus, reveals their crucial role in global health. The benefits of these programmes extend beyond health, impacting social care systems and aligning with global agendas such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the WHO Immunisation Agenda 2030 (IA2030). However, the full value of such programmes is often underestimated due to underrepresentation in academic literature, leading to suboptimal investment decisions.

The Rising Burden of Infectious Diseases and Ageing Populations

The world is witnessing significant demographic shifts, with ageing populations becoming a dominant trend. Infectious diseases like shingles and pneumococcal disease pose severe threats to older adults, leading to substantial hospitalisation burdens. Alongside this, the ‘tripledemic’ of COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and RSV, coupled with rising rates of chronic diseases among younger age groups, is exerting immense pressure on healthcare systems. This necessitates a shift from treatment to prevention, with vaccination standing as a fundamental preventive measure.

The Economic and Health Benefits of Adult Immunisation

Adult immunisation programmes are not just health measures, but also economically beneficial strategies. They are cost-effective and can result in net cost savings for healthcare systems. Recent studies in Australia and Germany underline that these programmes offer financial gains by averting hospital inpatient and emergency care. Expanding adult immunisation programmes and coverage can lead to substantial productivity gains and economic benefits for society. Moreover, these programmes can contribute to health and economic equity within countries, benefiting vulnerable and underserved communities.

The Urgent Need for Further Research and Adoption of a Preventive Mindset

Despite the clear benefits, significant gaps exist in evidence regarding the broader elements of the value of immunisation programmes. This calls for urgent research to prioritise and enhance adult immunisation programmes for the benefit of society and public health. It is vital for policy- and decision-makers to adopt a prevention-first mindset and implement robust adult immunisation programmes that are proven cost-effective. Expanding the evidence base for the broader value of adult immunisation is a crucial step towards optimising the value of these programmes.

Conclusion: The Power of Prevention

Adult immunisation programmes are powerful tools in the fight against infectious diseases and the burden they place on healthcare systems. They are cost-effective, promote health equity, and align with global health goals. However, their full potential remains untapped, largely due to underrepresentation in academic literature and a lack of awareness among decision-makers. It’s time to shift our focus from treatment to prevention and recognise the immense value that adult immunisation programmes bring to society.

Reference url

Recent Posts

diabetes diagnosis retinal images
         

Diabetes Diagnosis through Retinal Imaging and Deep Learning

🤔 How can deep learning transform diabetes diagnosis?

Discover the innovative DiaNet v2 model, which leverages retinal images to accurately diagnose diabetes with over 92% accuracy! This non-invasive approach has the potential to improve health outcomes, especially in regions where traditional methods are less accessible. Join us in exploring how technology can revolutionise diabetes management.

#SyenzaNews #AIinHealthcare #DigitalHealth #HealthcareInnovation #DiabetesManagement

mpox outbreak response
     

Mpox Outbreak in Africa: Singapore and Africa CDC Collaborate

🌍 How is international collaboration shaping the fight against the mpox outbreak in Africa?

Discover the latest efforts from Africa CDC and the Ministry of Health, Singapore, to address this pressing health challenge. Their partnership includes critical support such as diagnostic kits and a comprehensive response plan, demonstrating the power of global cooperation in public health. Together, we can enhance diagnostics and strengthen case management to protect the communities most affected.

#SyenzaNews #globalhealth #healthcare #innovation

diabetes prevalence Middle East
          

Rising Diabetes Prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa

🌍 Are you aware of the alarming rise in diabetes cases, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa?

A recent article from the WHO highlights that global diabetes cases have quadrupled since 1990, with nearly 450 million adults going untreated. There’s an urgent need for policy changes and improved health systems to combat this escalating health crisis. Explore the challenges and actions needed to address this significant public health issue.

#SyenzaNews #DiabetesAwareness #GlobalHealth #PublicHealth #MENA

When you partner with Syenza, it’s like a Nuclear Fusion.

Our expertise are combined with yours, and we contribute clinical expertise and advanced degrees in health policy, health economics, systems analysis, public finance, business, and project management. You’ll also feel our high-impact global and local perspectives with cultural intelligence.

SPEAK WITH US

CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS

1950 W. Corporate Way, Suite 95478
Anaheim, CA 92801, USA

© 2024 Syenza™. All rights reserved.