Rotavirus vaccination introduction in Indonesia likely to be highly cost-effective

A study published in Vaccine assessed the cost-effectiveness of introducing rotavirus vaccines into the National Immunization Program in Indonesia, finding that it is likely to be highly cost-effective. The analysis involved an initial introduction of an imported rotavirus vaccine followed by a staged implementation of the locally produced vaccine from both health system and societal perspectives. The primary outcome measure was the incremental cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted, compared to no vaccination. The cost of a 10-year vaccination program is US$82.6 million and can potentially prevent 7.3 million cases of rotavirus and 420,000 DALYs. From a societal perspective, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for the staged program is US$464 per DALY averted (12 % of Indonesia’s gross domestic product (GDP) per capita). From a healthcare sector perspective, the ICER is similar at US$479 (13 % GDP per capita).