Factors influencing herpes zoster vaccination among older people in China: results from a discrete choice experiment

Abstract

Objectives: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent herpes zoster (HZ) and related complications. This study aimed to investigate the preference of HZ vaccine among older people.

Study design: A discrete choice experiment was performed.

Methods: In total, 178 adults aged ≥50 years were invited to choose between HZ vaccination scenarios using six vaccine attributes. Two equations were used to calculate participants' willingness to pay for the vaccine and their predicted choice probability.

Results: The attributes that significantly influenced participants' vaccine choices were lower cost, higher effectiveness, reduced side-effects and vaccination of others in their surroundings.

Conclusions: Improving medical insurance coverage or reducing the cost of the HZ vaccine will encourage more people to be vaccinated, resulting in reduced burden of disease among older people.

Keywords: Discrete choice experiment; Herpes zoster vaccine; Older people; Preference.