BRASILIA — Brazil’s Health Ministry has put forward a bid to add the herpes zoster vaccine to the public health system, but the proposal was rejected by the national body overseeing technology incorporation in SUS. The decision hinges on cost considerations and limited vaccine supply from the manufacturer,framed against established criteria of safety,effectiveness,and the broader cost-benefit for the Brazilian population.
The evaluation highlighted that the bid from the vaccine’s producer carried a steep price tag. It also noted that only 1.5 million doses would be available annually, with an initial focus on residents aged 80 and above. This allocation would not meet the needs of that demographic and becomes even more restrictive when the vaccine is recommended for people over 50, a group estimated at around 60 million brazilians.To cover the entire eligible population, the projected expense would approach 50 billion reais—roughly ten times the federal government’s annual investment in the Farmácia Popular program.
Although the decision was not approved, health authorities insist the discussion is far from over. The Ministry said it will continue talks with potential producers to secure a supply at a scale and price that the SUS can sustain. “Incorporating a vaccine into the SUS involves a public policy affecting tens of millions of people. we remain committed to pursuing a sustainable proposal with adequate supply and fair costs for the SUS and the population,” the Health Minister stated.
This effort is part of the current administration’s broader push to broaden vaccination access, following a year that saw high-cost immunizations added, including vaccines against bronchiolitis and ACWY meningitis.
Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, arises from the varicella-zoster virus—the same pathogen responsible for chickenpox. After the initial infection, the virus can lie dormant and reappear later, particularly in the elderly or in individuals with weakened immune systems such as those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, or chronic diseases. The SUS currently provides treatment focused on symptom relief and complication prevention.
Key facts at a glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposal | Add herpes zoster vaccine to SUS |
| Body assessing the proposal | National Commission for the incorporation of Technologies in SUS (Conitec) |
| Reason for rejection | High cost and limited annual doses (1.5 million) |
| Initial target group | People over 80 (with vaccine recommended for those over 50) |
| estimated population to cover | Around 60 million Brazilians over 50 |
| Estimated total cost | Approximately R$50 billion |
| Current status | Rejection by Conitec; ongoing negotiations with producers |
| Related policy trend | Expansion of vaccination access; recent additions include bronchiolitis and ACWY meningitis vaccines |
Evergreen context: The case illustrates a perennial challenge in universal health systems—balancing expansive coverage with fiscal sustainability.Decisions about high-cost vaccines must weigh safety and effectiveness against the realities of supply chains and long-term affordability for tens of millions of people.
Two questions for readers: Do you think universal vaccination programs should proceed despite sizable costs if they protect vulnerable populations? What strategies could strengthen vaccine supply and reduce the price for large-scale public programs?
Disclaimer: This article summarizes official statements and public health considerations. It is not medical advice. For individualized data, consult a healthcare professional.
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