Safety and Immunogenicity of Zoster Vaccine Live in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Adults with CD4 + Cell Counts >200 Cells/mL Virologically Suppressed on Antiretroviral Therapy

Abstract

Background Herpes zoster (HZ) risk is increased in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons. Live attenuated zoster vaccine (ZV) reduces HZ incidence and severity in adults; safety and immunogenicity data in HIV-infected adults are limited. Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in HIV-infected adults virally suppressed on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Participants, stratified by CD4 + count (200-349 or ≥350 cells/μL), were randomized 3:1 to receive ZV or placebo on day 0 and week 6. The primary endpoint was serious adverse event or grade 3/4 signs/symptoms within 6 weeks after each dose. Immunogenicity (varicella zoster virus [VZV]-specific glycoprotein enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and interferon-γ enzyme-linked immunospot assay responses) was assessed at 6 and 12 weeks postvaccination. Results Of 395 participants (296 ZV vs 99 placebo), 84% were male, 47% white, 29% black, and 22% Hispanic; median age was 49 years. Safety endpoints occurred in 15 ZV and 2 placebo recipients (5.1% (95% confidence interval (CI), 2.9%-8.2%) vs 2.1% (95% CI,.3%-7.3%) P =.26). Injection site reactions occurred in 42% of ZV (95% CI, 36.3%-47.9%) vs 12.4% of placebo recipients (95% CI, 6.6%-20.6%) (P