A new study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases has found that the recombinant herpes zoster vaccine (RZV), also known as Shingrix, not only protects against shingles but also lowers the risk of hospitalization for stroke and myocardial infarction in adults aged 50 and older. Researchers from Kaiser Permanente Southern California analyzed data from over 102,000 patients who received two doses of RZV between 2018 and 2020 and found significant benefits across various outcomes.
The study showed that vaccinated individuals had a lower incidence of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) compared to unvaccinated patients, with an adjusted vaccine effectiveness of 72.9%. Additionally, vaccinated adults had a reduced risk of hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction and stroke, with adjusted hazard ratios of 0.720 and 0.575, respectively.
The study’s findings support prior evidence showing the RZV’s effectiveness in preventing shingles-related pain, as well as its potential role in reducing cardiovascular complications. By preventing shingles, the vaccine may indirectly lower the inflammatory burden that contributes to stroke and MI. The results also suggest that both the prevention of shingles itself and the immunologic effects of the vaccine may contribute to reduced vascular risks.
The study’s authors note that even patients who develop breakthrough herpes zoster after vaccination still experience a lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to unvaccinated individuals. This suggests that both the prevention of shingles and the potential immunologic effects of the vaccine play a role in reducing vascular risks.
Overall, the study provides real-world evidence strengthening recommendations for vaccination in older adults, particularly given the severe morbidity associated with ophthalmic involvement.
Source: https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/shingles-vaccine-linked-to-reduced-risks-of-stroke-myocardial-infarction-and-herpes-zoster-ophthalmicus