COST-BENEFIT-ANALYSIS OF GENERAL VACCINATION AGAINST HAEMOPHILUS-INFLUENZAE TYPE-B IN SWEDEN

A cost-benefit analysis of general vaccination of infants with a conju gated Haemophilus influenzae type b (HIB) vaccine was performed. Infor mation on incidence and prognosis of HIB meningitis and acute epiglott itis in children was obtained from nation-wide retrospective studies c overing the years 1981-83, when the birth rate was approximately 93,00 0 per year. The annual cost for hospitalization, neurologic and audito ry sequelae and parents' absence from work amounted to 54 million Swed ish crowns (SEK). A mean of 6 children died every year. Inclusion of v alue of lives lost added SEK 72 million to the cost of disease. With v accine prices (approximate to SEK 125/dose) and birth rate (approximat e to 120,000 per year) prevailing in 1993, vaccine costs would be SEK 45 million, provided that 3 doses are sufficient to offer protection c lose to 100%. Other costs for vaccination, e.g. physicians' and nurses ' time, needles and syringes, are negligible, since the vaccine can be given at the same time as other infant vaccinations at already existi ng Child Health Centres. In conclusion, general vaccination of infants against HIB is cost-effective, saves Lives and reduces human sufferin g.