Shingrix Approved for Expanded Use in Adults Aged 18 and Older with Increased Risk of Shingles

(Source: Shanghai Observation News)

GSK China today announced that the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China has approved Shingrix (GSK’s recombinant zoster vaccine) for the prevention of shingles in adults aged 18 years and older who are at increased risk of shingles due to known disease or treatment (such as autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation) causing immunodeficiency or immunosuppression.

Herpes zoster is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Herpes zoster typically presents as a rash, with painful blisters appearing on the chest, abdomen, or face. After the rash occurs, patients may also experience postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) — a prolonged neuropathic pain that can last for weeks or months, and in rare cases, even years. Postherpetic neuralgia is the most common complication of herpes zoster, occurring in 5% to 30% of all herpes zoster cases.

China reports approximately 6 million cases of shingles annually. In addition to aging, factors such as immunodeficiency or immunosuppression can also increase the risk of developing shingles. Currently, there are no other shingles vaccines approved by the NMPA for this population. Shingles-related pain often manifests as aching, burning, stabbing, or electric shock-like sensations, significantly impacting patients' quality of life by interfering with sleep and affecting the ability to perform daily activities, including work. This approval expands the scope of use for Shingrix to ensure protection is provided to those at increased risk of developing shingles.

Sanjay Gurunathan, Senior Vice President of GSK and Head of Vaccine and Infectious Disease Research and Development, stated that this approval marks a crucial step for GSK in expanding the accessibility of Shingrix to high-risk populations, for whom shingles can have more severe consequences. Through close collaboration with regulatory agencies, researchers continue to drive innovation to provide protection for groups at increased risk of the disease.

Original Title: "Available for Ages 18 and Above! Shingrix Herpes Zoster Vaccine Approved for Expanded Age Range"

Column Editor: Wang Lei Image Source: Xinmin Map

Source: Author: Xinmin Evening News, Zuo Yan