GSK Preps for Fall Launch of RSV Vaccine; CEO Expects Slower Initial Uptake

What You Need to Know: 

• GSK has developed a vaccine against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is preparing to launch it in the United States in the fall.
• CEO Emma Walmsley does not anticipate as quick an uptake for the RSV vaccine as was seen with the company’s successful shingles vaccine, Shingrix.
• GSK considers the RSV vaccine a crucial component in their strategy to offset anticipated losses from expiring patent protections for some key HIV drugs.
• Walmsley indicated that distribution centers throughout the U.S. have already received shipments of the RSV vaccine.
• On Wednesday, GSK raised its financial forecast 2023 following stronger-than-predicted Q2 earnings.
• Shingrix, GSK’s shingles vaccine, is the firm’s best-selling product, generating 880 million pounds ($1.14 billion) just in Q2.
• RSV is a significant health risk, leading to a high incidence of pneumonia in toddlers and elderly citizens, resulting in numerous hospitalizations and fatalities annually.
• In June, GSK stated that it expects to price the RSV vaccine between $200 and $295 per dose but has not provided further details.

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