GSK: Adult vaccination could yield significant economic benefits in New Zealand
A new report from GSK suggests that expanding adult vaccination programs in New Zealand could lead to substantial economic gains and reduce healthcare system pressures.
Expanding adult vaccination programs in New Zealand could generate significant economic benefits and alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, according to a report released by GSK plc in May 2025.
The report estimates that a publicly funded vaccination program for individuals aged 65 and over, targeting shingles, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), could prevent over 8,200 hospitalizations, nearly 2,500 emergency department visits, and over 137,000 general practitioner (GP) visits over a four-year period.
The report, titled "Prevention Pays: The Economic Value of Adult Vaccination," highlights that investments in medicines and vaccines in New Zealand are often undervalued. This is attributed to factors such as the valuation of life used for health investments and the overlooking of broader economic and health sector impacts.
According to the findings, investing in an adult vaccination program could yield a return on investment (ROI) of 1.93–2.17 for every dollar spent. Over four years, the projected net benefit is estimated at $314.6 million, with total benefits potentially exceeding $1 billion when accounting for healthcare savings, productivity gains, and the economic contribution of informal caregivers.