NSW Commission Calls for 2 Million Jabs in Mass Campaign Against the Flu

The state’s Productivity Commission says herd immunity could save $1.3 billion in loss economic output.

Three 10-dose influenza virus vaccine vials are seen at Ballin Pharmacy in Chicago, Illinois on October 8, 2004. Tim Boyle/Getty Images

Boosting the influenza vaccination rate among healthy New South Wales (NSW) residents could deliver up to $1.3 billion (US$830 million) in economic benefits to the Australian state each year, according to a report.

The NSW Productivity Commission’s new report (pdf) says achieving “herd immunity” against influenza could help the state save around 500 lives and provide between $500 million and $1.3 billion worth of gross benefits each year.