A recent cost‑effectiveness study evaluates the economic and health impact of the new 20‑valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) compared to the existing 13‑valent PCV (PCV13) and the 23‑valent polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). Using a comprehensive model that analyzes disease rates, vaccine effectiveness, healthcare costs, and mortality across diverse population settings, the authors find that PCV20 could prevent significantly more cases of pneumococcal disease and deaths. The model predicts around 2,578 fewer pneumococcal-related deaths—an outcome that drives substantial cost savings and an improved value profile when PCV20 is recommended in national immunization programs.
The findings suggest that policymakers should strongly consider prioritizing PCV20 over both PCV13 and PPSV23, given its superior potential to avert disease burden and maximize economic efficiency. By preventing more cases and deaths, PCV20 could reduce direct medical expenses and indirect societal costs associated with pneumococcal infections. The study offers key data for immunization economists and policymakers seeking robust, evidence-based justifications for updating pneumococcal vaccination strategies to include next-generation vaccines.
Thumbnail image credit: Gavi
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