Optimizing immunization through concurrent vaccination: a safety and cost analysis of PCV13 and rotavirus vaccines...

The implementation of concurrent vaccination strategies presents a promising approach to simplify complex immunization schedules while maintaining vaccine safety and efficacy. This study evaluates both the safety profile and economic impact of co-administering 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and rotavirus vaccines in Shanghai, China.

The study focuses on infants under 2 years old. The safety of concurrent PCV13 and rotavirus vaccination was assessed across urban and suburban clinics, with adverse events monitored on the day of vaccination and via 7-day follow-up. The economic evaluation, conducted from a societal perspective, accounted for direct medical, non-medical, and indirect costs. Costs were calculated per dose and per fully immunized child. Economic analyses utilized cost-minimization analysis (CMA) and budgetary impact analysis (BIA), with sensitivity analyses to ensure robustness.

The incidence of systemic adverse effects was 4.82 % for PCV13 alone, 4.35 % for rotavirus vaccine alone, and 4.11 % for simultaneous vaccination, with no statistically significant differences between the three patterns of vaccination. Partial-dose concurrent vaccination is cost-effective, with total costs reduced by 2.29 %, 2.20 %, and 1.07 % for co-administering 1, 2, and 3 doses, respectively, compared to the current separate administration schedule. Cost savings are predominantly achieved in direct non-medical costs and indirect costs, with potential savings exceeding 40 %.

Compared to separate administration of RV and PCV13, concurrent administration optimizes resource utilization in immunization programs, reduces costs to families by reducing clinic visits, and has a favorable safety profile. This strategy is especially valuable for enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of immunization programs in densely populated urban settings.