Cost-Effectiveness of Routine Childhood Vaccination Against Seasonal Influenza in Germany

ObjectivesIn Germany, routine influenza vaccination with quadrivalent vaccines (QIV) is recommended and reimbursed for individuals ?60 years of age underlying chronic conditions. The present study examines the cost-effectiveness a possible extension recommendation to include strategies childhood against seasonal using QIV.MethodsA dynamic transmission model was used examine epidemiological impact different strategies. outputs were in health economic decision tree calculate costs per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained from societal third-party payer (TPP) perspective. Strain-specific epidemiology, vaccine uptake, efficacy data 10 non-pandemic seasons 2003/2004 2013/2014 used, cost drawn mainly insurance claims analysis supplemented by estimates literature. Uncertainty explored via scenario, deterministic, probabilistic sensitivity analyses.ResultsVaccinating 2- 9-year-olds QIV assuming uptake 40% cost-saving benefit–cost ratio 1.66 perspective an incremental €998/QALY TPP Lower higher uptakes show marginal effects, while extending target group 17-year-olds further increases benefits still being below willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold. Assuming no vaccine-induced herd protection has negative effect on ratio, but remains cost-effective.ConclusionRoutine Germany most likely be highly cost-effective