A Standardized Method to Calculate the Number Needed to Vaccinate Open Access

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: There are many methods to calculate the Number Needed to Vaccinate (NNV). These methods range from modeling to using standardized formulas derived from the Number Needed to Treat. Due to the variety of methods used to calculate and interpret the NNV, there is no comparability between methods to inform global interventions.

METHODS: This systemic literature review details the different methods and interpretations of the NNV to determine whether a standardized method to calculate the NNV can be derived. A total of 37 articles were selected for review from which data regarding calculation method, interpretation, NNV, and advantages/disadvantages of each method were extracted.

RESULTS: The method that met the most criteria for that of a standardized method was 1/Attributable Risk Ratio/Length of Study Period. This is because this method was simple, used data that was easily available, and accounted for long-term effects of vaccination, such as vaccine waning. There was no method that had been used that accounted for indirect effects of vaccination without compromising on generalizability.

CONCLUSION: A standardized method to calculate the NNV is important, as this can lead to data sharing and globally informed efforts to lower the burden of infectious disease.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION    1

METHODS    5

Search Strategy           5

Inclusion/Exclusion Criteria   5

Results of Search        5

RESULTS       8

Uses of NNV  8

Modeling Based Methods to Calculate NNV             9

NNT Based Methods to Calculate NNV        14

1/ARR/Study Period Length   21

Other Methods to Calculate NNV      23

Information Available to Calculate NNV      25

DISCUSSION    29

CONCLUSION    32

REFERENCES    33

APPENDICES    49         

 

About this Master's Thesis

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School	Rollins School of Public Health
Department	Hubert Department of Global Health
Degree	M.P.H.
Submission	Master's Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Statistics Health Sciences, Public Health
Keyword	NNV PUBLIC HEALTH STATISTICS NUMBER NEEDED TO VACCINATE
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Omer, Saad, Emory University
Partnering Agencies	Emory University schools, faculty or affiliated programs

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