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A live attenuated varicella zoster virus (VZV) vaccine decreases the incidence and severity of herpes zoster and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) when it is given to older adults (age, ≥60; Journal Watch Jun 14 2005), but insurers will wonder whether it is worthwhile. Using a decision analytic model, California researchers studied the cost-effectiveness of VZV vaccination (vs. no vaccination) of older immunocompetent adults with histories of VZV infection. The model included incidence of zoster, incidence and duration of PHN, local vaccine reactions, health-state utilities, and costs of healthcare, vaccine, and lost productivity.
When calculated with a vaccination cost of US$100 (which included both vaccine and related costs), cost per quality-a…