Effectiveness of Two-Dose Zoster Vaccine in Preventing Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus and Cardiovascular Events

A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases has demonstrated that receiving two doses of the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) can significantly lower the risk of developing herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO), as well as reduce the incidence of acute myocardial infarction and stroke among adults aged 50 and older. The research involved a large cohort analysis conducted by Emily Rayens, Ph.D., M.P.H., from Kaiser Permanente Southern California. The study analyzed data from 102,766 vaccinated individuals and compared outcomes with 411,064 unvaccinated adults, spanning from April 2018 to December 2020.

The findings revealed that vaccinated individuals had a hazard ratio of 0.271 for HZO, indicating a 72.9% effectiveness in preventing this serious complication. Additionally, the risks of hospitalized heart attack and stroke were notably lower in the vaccinated group, with hazard ratios of 0.720 and 0.575 respectively. These results suggest that the benefits of RZV extend beyond its primary purpose of preventing shingles and postherpetic neuralgia, potentially offering broader protection against life-threatening cardiovascular conditions.

Clinicians and public health officials are encouraged to consider these additional advantages when recommending the zoster vaccine for older adults. The study also notes that some authors have disclosed ties to biopharmaceutical companies, including GSK, the manufacturer of RZV.

For more insights, visit the full study: source.