Budget impact analysis of universal rotavirus vaccination in the Local Health Unit 11 Empoli, Tuscany, Italy

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Public Health Economics
• Vaccine Policy

Background:

• Rotavirus (RV) infection is a leading cause of acute viral gastroenteritis in children globally, particularly affecting those aged 6-24 months.
• RV infection can lead to severe diarrhea and dehydration, posing significant health risks to young children.
• The study focuses on the Local Health Unit (LHU) 11 Empoli in Tuscany, Italy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a 5-year budget impact analysis of universal rotavirus vaccination.
• To evaluate the economic implications of rotavirus gastroenteritis (RVGE) prevention through vaccination in a specific Italian health unit.

Main Methods:

• Development of an ad hoc mathematical simulation model.
• Inclusion of key metrics such as RVGE incidence, hospitalizations, nosocomial diarrhea, medical consultations, prescriptions, and emergency department visits.
• Focus on direct medical costs of RV diarrhea and vaccination campaign expenses as primary outcome measures.

Main Results:

• Universal rotavirus vaccination is projected to yield substantial savings through avoided healthcare costs.
• Vaccination cost savings are expected to surpass initial expenses by the second year of the campaign.
• A total saving of 1.5 million Euros for the Health Service is estimated after five years.

Conclusions:

• Universal rotavirus vaccination demonstrates both clinical and economic benefits.
• The findings support the favorable impact of rotavirus vaccination from both Health Service and societal perspectives.