Publication

Accounting for the full benefits of childhood vaccination in South Africa

Authored by:

Barnighausen, T., Bloom, D.E., Canning, D., et al

Full Citation:

Barnighausen, T., Bloom, D.E., Canning, D., et al 2008. Accounting for the full benefits of childhood vaccination in South Africa. South African Medical Journal. 98(11).

View Publication

Additional key concepts from this publication:

As child mortality declines, family size has also declined resulting in a larger, healthier workforce and increased financial savings at the family level.

Key Evidence:A study from South Africa shows that reduction in birth rate (fertility) can yield certain socioeconomic benefits. These include 1) a decrease in ratio of economically dependent people 2) increased per capita labor force and 3) increased savings. These savings can be invested in physical human capital which aids in economic growth. As average family sizes decrease, parents are likely to invest more on their child’s health and education. This in turn offers potential benefits to long term productivity in adulthood.