GSK’s RSV Vaccine, Arexvy, Secures Expanded European Approval

GSK plc (LSE/NYSE: GSK) has received a significant boost with the European Commission's approval of its Arexvy vaccine for use in all adults aged 18 years and older.

This expansion significantly broadens the potential market for the vaccine, which was previously approved for adults aged 60 and over, and those 50-59 at increased risk.

The updated indication allows European countries to make Arexvy available to a much larger segment of the population. This move is particularly important given the high incidence of RSV-related hospitalizations among adults in the EU, with an average of 158,000 individuals requiring hospital care each year due to RSV infections. Markets reacted positively to the news, anticipating increased revenue potential for GSK.

Compared to children, adults hospitalized with RSV face a higher risk of severe complications and increased mortality rates, highlighting the importance of preventative measures. The lack of routine testing for RSV in adults suggests that the true burden of the disease may be underestimated, further emphasizing the potential impact of widespread vaccination.

Sanjay Gurunathan, GSK Head of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Research and Development, emphasized the importance of this approval, stating it will help protect all adults aged 18 and older in Europe against RSV, a potentially serious respiratory infection. GSK is actively pursuing expanded indications for Arexvy in other key markets, including the US and Japan, signaling further growth opportunities.