[Herpes zoster and subunit vaccine]

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes primary varicella (chickenpox) and latent infection in dorsal root ganglia.
• Reactivation of VZV leads to herpes zoster (shingles), particularly in immunocompromised individuals and the elderly.
• VZV is the sole airborne human herpesvirus and the only one with preventable symptoms via vaccination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms of herpes zoster onset.
• To summarize clinical trial results for a novel subunit vaccine against VZV reactivation.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical findings related to zoster pathogenesis.
• Analysis of clinical trial data for the recombinant VZV glycoprotein gE subunit vaccine (Shingrix®).

Main Results:

• The Shingrix® vaccine, a combination of adjuvant and recombinant VZV glycoprotein gE, demonstrates high efficacy in preventing herpes zoster.
• The vaccine is effective even in high-risk populations, including the elderly and those with specific medical conditions.

Conclusions:

• The subunit vaccine Shingrix® offers a highly effective preventative strategy against herpes zoster.
• Understanding VZV reactivation mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted interventions.