GSK Announces Chinese Launch of Shingrix for Prevention of Herpes Zoster in Adults Aged 50 and Older

GlaxoSmithKline (London Stock Exchange / New York Stock Exchange: GSK) announced today that its shingles vaccine, Shingrix, has been officially launched in China for the prevention of herpes zoster in adults aged 50 years and older.

Herpes zoster is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. Nearly all adults aged 50 years and older have been infected with the varicella-zoster virus, which may reactivate as they age.

Xu Jinhua, Director of the Department of Dermatology at Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, stated: “In addition to causing clusters of blisters on one side of the body and subjecting patients to the suffering of rash, the most common complication of herpes zoster is postherpetic neuralgia. This condition leads to burning, electric shock-like, and stabbing pain. Pain during the acute phase may be even more severe than labor pains or chronic cancer pain, seriously affecting quality of life, significantly disrupting sleep and mood, and impacting work and daily activities. In severe cases, it can lead to mental disorders and depression. Diagnosis is challenging during the prodromal phase of herpes zoster when there are no skin lesions and only pain is present. Furthermore, as current treatment options for herpes zoster are limited, vaccination is an effective measure for prevention.”

Dr. Thomas Breuer, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Global Vaccines at GSK, stated, “We are pleased to see this innovative vaccine launched in China, helping the public reduce the burden of this painful disease.”

Deng Ying, President of the Beijing Preventive Medicine Association, stated, “Middle-aged and older adults face a high risk of infectious diseases and a substantial disease burden. The rapid introduction and market launch of the recombinant zoster vaccine are of great significance for preserving health functions and improving the overall health status of this population.”

Qi Xin, Vice President of GSK and General Manager of Prescription Drugs and Vaccines in China, stated, “I believe the introduction of Shingrix will help raise awareness of adult vaccination in China, better address disease challenges, and thereby improve the health literacy of the entire population. As a globally leading vaccine company, we will always uphold our commitment to enabling people to ‘do more, feel better, and live longer,’ supporting the development of immunization programs in China.”