Overview

• Pooled data in a GSK-led meta-analysis of nine studies (eight observational and one pooled safety RCT) found about an 18% relative reduction in heart attack or stroke among adults 18+ and 16% in those 50+.
• The recombinant vaccine Shingrix showed a larger estimated association, with roughly a 21% lower risk compared with no vaccination.
• Absolute differences were small, at approximately 1.2 to 2.2 fewer major cardiovascular events per 1,000 person-years among vaccinated people.
• Authors and independent experts emphasized that the evidence is predominantly observational and called for randomized trials to determine causality.
• NHS England said around 300,000 immunocompromised adults aged 18 to 49 will become eligible for the shingles vaccine from 1 September.