LONDON (Alliance News) - GlaxoSmithKline PLC said Tuesday that data from a phase III study of its vaccine candidate for shingles shows an overall efficacy of 97.2%.
The study showed that the vaccine's effectiveness was maintained across the age groups included in the study, at about 96.6% in people aged between 50 and 59, 97.4% in people aged between 60 and 69, and 98% in those aged 70 or older.
The number of subjects with serious adverse effects, including potential immune-mediated diseases or deaths were similar in vaccine and placebo groups. The most commonly reported adverse reaction was pain, and redness and swelling at the injection site.
Additional trials to evaluate the vaccines ability to prevent shingles in people aged 70 or older or adults with compromised immune systems are ongoing.
"We are extremely encouraged that the results may point out a health benefit in the prevention of shingles. This disease can be painful and potentially debilitating for some people and older people are particularly at risk," said Chairman of Global Vaccines Moncef Slaoui in a statement.
Shares in GlaxoSmithKline are trading down 1.1% at 1,545.50 pence Tuesday morning.
By Hana Stewart-Smith; hanassmith@alliancenews.com; @HanaSSAllNews
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