Vaccine Herd Effect
Author Information
Author(s): Kim Tae Hyong, Johnstone Jennie, Loeb Mark
Primary Institution: McMaster University
Hypothesis
The study aims to provide an update review on the herd effect, focusing on the clinical benefit of vaccination.
Conclusion
Vaccination can provide indirect benefits to unvaccinated populations through herd immunity, which extends the protection of vaccines beyond those who are directly vaccinated.
Supporting Evidence
- The herd effect has significantly contributed to the eradication of smallpox.
- Vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b has shown a 95% effectiveness.
- Childhood pneumococcal vaccination prevented 109,000 cases of invasive pneumococcal infection in the USA.
- Pertussis vaccination has reduced hospitalization rates significantly among non-vaccinated infants.
- Influenza vaccination in children can lead to a 61% reduction in laboratory-confirmed influenza in unvaccinated adults.
Takeaway
Vaccines not only help the people who get them but also protect others around them who didn't get vaccinated, like a big safety net.
Methodology
The paper reviews data from various vaccination programs and clinical trials to assess the herd effect.
Limitations
The study does not address all potential factors influencing herd immunity and the effectiveness of different vaccine formulations.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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