GSK Urges Shingles Prevention in Indian Adults Amid Awareness Gaps

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is significantly amplifying its efforts to promote shingles prevention among adults in India, emphasizing the critical need for increased awareness and proactive vaccination. This intensified focus comes amidst recent findings from a global survey, commissioned by GSK and released during Shingles Action Week (February 23 – March 1, 2026), highlighting substantial gaps in public understanding and physician-patient dialogue regarding the painful viral disease in India. Shingles, or herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Epidemiological studies in India indicate that over 90% of individuals have been exposed to VZV by the age of 40, rendering them vulnerable to developing shingles later in life. India experiences approximately one million shingles cases annually. The risk of developing shingles increases with age, particularly in individuals over 50, and is further elevated in those with weakened immune systems or underlying chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, and cancer. The disease is characterized by a painful rash that typically develops on one side of the body, often on the chest, abdomen, or face, and can lead to severe, long-lasting complications. The most common complication is post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), which involves persistent nerve pain that can last for months or even years after the rash has healed. Other serious complications include vision loss and hearing loss, particularly in older adults. To combat the burden of shingles, GSK launched its recombinant, adjuvanted shingles vaccine, Shingrix, in India on April 24, 2023. Shingrix, the world's first non-live vaccine for shingles, is approved for adults aged 50 years and above, and also for individuals aged 18 and over who are at increased risk of herpes zoster. It has demonstrated over 90% efficacy and can provide protection for at least 10 years. In addition to making the vaccine available, GSK has initiated multiple public awareness campaigns tailored for the Indian audience. In February 2024, GSK launched 'Project 90', a public awareness drive in collaboration with celebrities like Soha Ali Khan, Milind Soman, Neelam Soni, and Rohan Bopanna. The campaign's name, 'Project 90', signifies that over 90% of Indians above 50 years of age may harbor the varicella-zoster virus and are therefore at risk of shingles. This campaign utilized a unique social media strategy, including simulated takeovers of celebrity Instagram profiles, to mimic the unexpected reactivation of the virus and create public buzz. Further reinforcing its commitment, GSK also introduced the 'Yeh Science Hai' campaign in August 2024, featuring veteran actors Amitabh Bachchan and Manoj Pahwa. This campaign focuses on explaining the scientific link between chickenpox and shingles and highlights the increased susceptibility of people with diabetes to shingles, as high blood sugar levels can compromise the immune system. The recent global survey, which included 752 Indian participants aged 50-70 living with chronic conditions, underscores the urgency of these campaigns. The survey revealed that 43% of Indian participants who had experienced shingles reported severe, day-disrupting pain, and over one in three stated that it prevented them from working or attending social events. Patients with chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease reported the greatest disruption, while those with diabetes and cardiovascular disease experienced the highest emotional toll. Crucially, the survey exposed significant knowledge gaps: nearly one in four participants with chronic health conditions knew little to nothing about shingles, and almost one in three could not explain how their chronic condition increased their risk. Despite 75% of these individuals regularly visiting doctors, nearly half (48%) reported never discussing shingles with a healthcare professional. This highlights a critical need for adult vaccinations, including shingles, to become a routine part of health discussions, especially for India's growing older population and those managing chronic illnesses. Experts like Dr. Shalini Menon, Executive Vice President – Medical Affairs, GSK India, emphasize that India's aging population, coupled with a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases, places additional strain on immune systems, increasing vulnerability to infections like shingles. The economic burden associated with shingles, including healthcare costs and productivity losses, further stresses the importance of preventive measures. The shift from reactive care to preventive healthcare, including adult vaccination, is becoming a national priority for India. The related article about Brendan Fevola and his father in Australia also underscores the severe, excruciating pain and life disruption caused by shingles, reinforcing the global relevance of GSK's prevention message. Their personal stories serve as a powerful reminder for at-risk adults to seek medical advice and consider vaccination. In summary, GSK's multi-pronged approach involving vaccine availability, celebrity-led awareness campaigns, and insightful surveys is driving a crucial dialogue around shingles prevention in India, aiming to protect the vulnerable adult population from this debilitating disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Read Full Story on Quick Digest