Free vaccinations for adult Australians would provide an annual economic benefit of more than $1 billion.
A report commissioned by global biopharma company GSK, found that every dollar invested to vaccinate adults against common illnesses provided a $3.50 economic return.
It found increasing investment in adult immunisation had the potential to deliver $1.1 billion in benefits every year.
Study authors Evaluate Consulting said this was achieved by reducing demands on health, government services and carers, boosting workplace productivity and economic participation,.
The study examined the cost-effectiveness of preventing diseases like shingles, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), pertussis (whooping cough) and diphtheria.
It found adult immunisation would return a range of economic benefits dependent on the disease and age group, including:
- $152 million return annually by vaccinating people aged 50 years for shingles.
- $303 million return annually by vaccinating all people for influenza.
- $687 million return annually by vaccinating people aged age 75 years and older, and high-risk populations 60 years to 74 for Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Economist Saul Eslake said immunisation was one of the most economically effective public health measures, second only to clean water.
“As the population ages, vaccinations become even more valuable by helping Australians to live well for longer,” Mr Eslake says.
“Preventing disease is vital to Australia’s future economic resilience, as a healthy ageing population positively impacts workforce productivity, participation, and economic growth.”
GSK Australia Executive Country Medical Director Dr Alan Paul said the report was designed to help governments make investments to ensure economic sustainability.
“Economic growth has slowed, cost-of-living increases and inflation pressures are impacting households. Our population is ageing: demand for care and support services is escalating,” Dr Paul said.
“These are powerful economic forces that have the potential to lead to a future where government spending will outweigh revenue for the foreseeable future.”
