This article provides excellent facts and figures that OHNs may want to use to justify a flu immunization program.
The Economic Impact of Pandemic Influenza in the United
States: Priorities for Intervention
Martin I. Meltzer, Nancy J. Cox, and Keiji Fukuda
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Abstract: We estimated the possible effects of the next influenza
pandemic in the United States and analyzed the economic impact of vaccine-based
interventions. Using death rates, hospitalization data, and outpatient visits, we
estimated 89,000 to 207,000 deaths; 314,000 to 734,000 hospitalizations; 18 to 42 million
outpatient visits; and 20 to 47 million additional illnesses. Patients at high risk (15%
of the population) would account for approximately 84% of all deaths. The estimated
economic impact would be US$71.3 to $166.5 billion, excluding disruptions to commerce and
society. At $21 per vaccinee, we project a net savings to society if persons in all age
groups are vaccinated. At $62 per vaccinee and at gross attack rates of 25%, we project
net losses if persons not at high risk for complications are vaccinated. Vaccinating 60%
of the population would generate the highest economic returns but may not be possible
within the time required for vaccine effectiveness, especially if two doses of vaccine are
required.