Recommendations have been updated for use of the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) for prevention of herpes zoster and related complications among immunocompromised adults aged 19 and older, according to finding in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. CDC researchers presented the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for RZV, noting that on July 23, 2021, the FDA expanded the indication for RZV to include adults who are, or will be, at increased risk for herpes zoster due to immunodeficiency or immunosuppression caused by known disease or therapy. For adults aged 19 and older who are, or will be, immunodeficient or immunosuppressed due to disease or therapy, the ACIP recommended two doses of RZV for prevention of herpes zoster and related complications. RZV is the first herpes zoster vaccine approved for immunocompromised individuals and has moderate-to-high vaccine efficacy and an acceptable safety profile. “RZV has the potential to prevent considerable herpes zoster incidence and related complications,” the study authors wrote.
