Comprehensive adult immunisation programmes could save up to €23 for every €1 spent in Ireland, according to a Position Paper, “2024 -2025 Vision & Strategic Approach to Adult Immunisation in Ireland,” produced by the pharmaceutical company, GSK.
It says Ireland’s over 65 population is predicted to double, reaching 1.6 million by 2051. The incidence of chronic diseases are increasing rapidly in the country, with 74% of over 58-year-olds living with comorbidities. With healthcare utilisation and costs rising, it is cheaper to prevent rather than treat disease.
The paper says approximately 300 vaccines are in development worldwide, with 80% of these efforts aimed towards adults.
“A recent report, which evaluated the full implementation of National Immunisation Advisory Committee NIAC recommendations for influenza, pneumococcal disease, herpes zoster, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), estimated that these programmes could prevent approximately 376,000 disease cases, avoid 74,000 hospitalisations, and avert around 1,400 disease-related deaths in Ireland.
“In this context, vaccines are a crucial component of preventative health strategies within healthcare systems. By investing in adult immunisation, Ireland can significantly enhance the quality of life for its aging population and greatly reduce the strain on its health system by prioritising disease prevention.
The Paper lists four priorities:
Priority 1 – Build trustworthy vaccination programmes grounded in informed consent and transparent, evidence-based information.
“This involves resourcing the HSE’s National Immunisation Office to standardise vaccine messaging, create accessible information on vaccination schedules, and promote vaccine literacy through educational campaigns.
“The recommencement of the National Vaccine Alliance to foster evidence-based communication on adult immunisation. Funding should be allocated to research public attitudes towards immunisation and combat misinformation and communication on immunisation should be integrated into existing HSE programmes.
“A consistent approach to education on immunisation should be adopted in undergraduate courses and continuing professional development for healthcare professionals. The benefits of immunisation should be communicated as part of school curricula.
Transparency in vaccine safety monitoring should be promoted, and a vaccine injury redress programme should be established with clear legal frameworks and eligibility criteria.
Priority 2 Equitable access to adult immunisation, reflecting the (NIAC) recommendations and addressing the diverse needs of the whole population.
“A whole-of-government approach is recommended to engage underserved populations and ensure equitable access across all demographic groups. Immunisation champions should be designated in each HSE Health Region to ensure cohesive communication and implementation of immunisation programmes. A service delivery model prioritising equitable access should be developed, offering multiple entry points to vaccination, including pharmacies, workplaces, hospitals and mobile clinics. Vaccination plans should be created and regularly updated, leveraging quantitative and qualitative data, including from existing networks and patient advocacy groups.
A more coordinated approach to vaccination of immunocompromised individuals should be developed, including clear guidelines for HCPs. The vaccinator workforce should be developed with flexibility and agility in mind and a standardised approach to training and accreditation should be developed for all vaccinators.
Priority 3 – Leverage a data-driven approach to immunisation, utilising accurate vaccination and population data to empower individuals and inform public health decision-making.
“A comprehensive immunisation information system should be implemented, integrating data from all appropriate settings and providing access to individual vaccination records. A reminder and recall messaging system should be instituted to prompt individuals for vaccination based on age, medical history, and other criteria. Vaccination data should be integrated with demographic and clinical information for detailed analysis and targeted promotion to specific cohorts of people.
“Access to timely vaccination data should be ensured to guide effective service delivery and rapid public health response to emerging threats. The Health Information Bill should be progressed and the integration of immunisation data within the planned Shared Care.
“Record and/or Electronic Health Records (EHRs) should be prioritised, as should the inclusion of an immunisation module on the HSE’s Patient App.
Priority 4 aims to position Ireland optimally for future vaccine innovations, supporting public health and the sustainability of the healthcare system and wider economy.
“A sustainable funding model for the adult immunisation programme should be agreed upon, removing financial barriers and ensuring appropriate support for healthcare providers who participate in immunisation.
“NIAC should be recognised as a National Immunisation Technical Advisory Group (NITAG) to align with European and WHO standards. A formal horizon scanning process should be established, with the NIAC, NIO and Department of Health publishing an updated immunisation roadmap on accessible platforms, ensuring transparency for all stakeholders.
“A streamlined process for faster decision-making on funding for adult vaccines should be developed, incorporating a flexible health technology assessment (HTA) process that considers the wider societal benefits of vaccines.
“Key performance indicators (KPIs) should be developed and monitored to track strategy implementation and programme performance. Finally, robust outbreak response and pandemic preparedness should be ensured through proactive surveillance, health protection resource allocation, and cross-sector collaboration.”
