Assessing the introduction of universal rotavirus vaccination in the Netherlands

Vaccine. 2008 Jul 4;26(29-30):3757-64. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.04.039. Epub 2008 May 5.

Abstract

Rotarix and RotaTeq are both prophylactic vaccines against rotavirus (RV) gastroenteritis. In 2006, these vaccines obtained a European license and because RV infections are widespread among Dutch children inclusion of these vaccines in the Dutch National Immunization Program (NIP) should be considered. Using an evaluation model for introducing a new vaccine, we assessed the introduction of universal RV vaccination in the Netherlands. Although post-marketing surveillance will be essential, both RV vaccines have proven to be safe and effective. Furthermore, the vaccines will prevent most of the RV-related hospitalizations and deaths. However, for the Netherlands with the current vaccine prices, universal RV vaccination is not expected to be cost-effective.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Gastroenteritis / epidemiology*
  • Gastroenteritis / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Netherlands / epidemiology
  • Rotavirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Rotavirus Infections / prevention & control*
  • Rotavirus Vaccines / economics
  • Rotavirus Vaccines / immunology
  • Rotavirus Vaccines / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Rotavirus Vaccines