Research
Study estimates large returns from first-year COVID-19 vaccine investment
The model estimated returns of $59.7 to $809 per dollar invested, while Medical Xpress reported an estimate of $81 to $810.
A model-based study published in PLOS Medicine estimated the global economic returns from COVID-19 vaccines during the first year of the vaccination programme. Researchers assessed data from 173 countries and compared vaccine development, manufacturing and delivery costs with health and economic benefits.
The study put those costs at $79.4 billion and valued the benefits at $6.43 trillion to $64.3 trillion. Its base-case analysis estimated returns of $59.7 to $809 per dollar invested. Medical Xpress reported a return estimate of $81 to $810 per dollar.
The study found that high-income countries had the greatest health benefits per person vaccinated, while low-income countries had the greatest nonhealth benefits per person relative to gross domestic product per capita. The authors said their analysis covers only the first year of vaccination and relies on previous analyses of vaccine impact.
