Cost-effectiveness of influenza vaccination in high-risk children in Argentina

Abstract

Objectives: our study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of influenza vaccination in high-risk children in Argentina.

Methods: a decision analysis model was performed, using data from published and unpublished sources, to compare two strategies--to vaccinate or not to vaccinate. We simulated the expected consequences of vaccination on direct medical costs, related to disease management and indirect costs, related to lost parental working days (absenteeism).

Results: Using base-case assumptions vaccination of high-risk children aged 6 months to 15 years old, in Argentina (estimated cohort of 1184748) would prevent 207331 cases of influenza, resulting in a reduction of 58052 days of hospitalization and 207331 outpatient visits. Vaccination would lead to net savings of US$ 11894870 per vaccinated cohort (US$ 10.04 per vaccinated child).

Conclusion: our economic analysis shows that in Argentina, routine vaccination of high-risk children against influenza would be cost saving for society.