Cost-Effectiveness of Adjuvanted Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine for Adults over 65 in France

Abstract

Background: In France, influenza accounts for an average of over one million consultations with GPs, 20,000 hospitalizations, and 9000 deaths per year, particularly among the over-65s. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of the adjuvanted quadrivalent influenza vaccine (aQIV) compared to standard (SD-QIV) and high-dose (HD-QIV) quadrivalent influenza vaccines for individuals aged 65 and older in France. Methods: The age-structured SEIR transmission model, calibrated to simulate a mean influenza season, incorporates a contact matrix to estimate intergroup contact rates. Epidemiological, economic, and utility outcomes are evaluated. Vaccine effectiveness and costs are derived from literature and national insurance data. Quality of life adjustments for influenza attack rates and hospitalizations are applied. Deterministic and probabilistic analyses are also conducted. Results: Compared to SD-QIV, aQIV demonstrates substantial reductions in healthcare utilization and mortality, avoiding 89,485 GP consultations, 2144 hospitalizations, and preventing 1611 deaths. Despite an investment of EUR 110 million, aQIV yields a net saving of EUR 14 million in healthcare spending. Compared to HD-QIV, aQIV saves 62 million euros on vaccination costs. Cost-effectiveness analysis reveals an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of EUR 7062 per QALY. Conclusions: This study highlights the cost-effectiveness of aQIV versus SD-QIV and HD-QIV, preventing influenza cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.