A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) suggests that targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination programs to older adults with underlying health conditions is a cost-effective strategy to reduce disease and associated healthcare costs.
RSV infections pose significant health risks, particularly for infants and older adults, with infection rates rising with age. Available vaccines can help prevent RSV-related illnesses in adults. Vaccination efforts could decrease the incidence of RSV in older populations and lower healthcare expenses.
To evaluate the effectiveness of RSV vaccination programs, researchers developed a model to analyze cost-effectiveness across various age groups and medical risk profiles. While most previous studies have focused on adults aged 60 and older, this study examined adults aged 50 and older. The researchers assessed different vaccination strategies, including those based solely on age, medical risk, or a combination of both.
Dr. Ashleigh Tuite from the Centre for Immunization Programs at the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, along with co-authors, noted that strategies targeting adults with pre-existing medical conditions are generally more cost-effective than those based solely on age. The study found that vaccinating older adults, particularly those aged 70 and older with chronic conditions, could be both cost-effective and efficient compared to not vaccinating.
The team also highlighted that in regions with high disease risk and significant healthcare costs, such as remote communities in northern Canada, broader vaccination programs might be cost-effective across various age groups.
The research was conducted by teams from the Public Health Agency of Canada, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, McMaster University, University of Ottawa, Public Health Ontario, and the Institut national de santé publique du Québec.
Additionally, CMAJ published a second article offering clinicians a concise guide on RSV vaccination for older adults. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends RSV vaccination for adults aged 75 and older, as well as for those aged 60 and older living in nursing homes or chronic care facilities. One dose of the RSV vaccine has been shown to provide protection for at least two respiratory virus seasons.
