Flu vaccine cuts heart attack risk

In summary, a recent meta-analysis found that the use of influenza vaccine was associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with existing coronary disease. However, it is important to consider other potential factors that could contribute to this effect, such as the impact of any moderate to severe illness on individuals who are already at risk for CVD. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between influenza and cardiovascular health. Other studies have also shown a link between chronic infections and negative long-term effects on cardiovascular health.
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  • #2
Link to the original study (freely available) in the Journal of the American Medical Association:

http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1758749
 
  • #3
From Ygggdrasil's link (bolding mine):

In a meta-analysis of RCTs, the use of influenza vaccine was associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. The greatest treatment effect was seen among the highest-risk patients with more active coronary disease. A large, adequately powered, multicenter trial is warranted to address these findings and assess individual cardiovascular end points.

(RCT = randomized controlled trial)

Could this just be the effect of any moderate to severe illness on people who are already at risk?
 
  • #4
lisab said:
.....................

Could this just be the effect of any moderate to severe illness on people who are already at risk?

Yes. Almost any stressor has the potential to worsen existing cardiovascular disease (CVD). This includes both acute and chronic infections. It's not surprising that the risk of a cardiac event is increased in CVD patients with acute viral infections such as with varieties of the influenza virus. Links with other more chronic infections have been established such as with infections of chlamydial pneumonia (CP), chronic H pylori and chronic periodontitis. Nevertheless, it's always useful to measure the risk of specific common stressors, especially when they are well defined and an effective preventive is available.

http://www.publishing.waldenu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1029&context=jsbhs

(see journal p 50)
 
Last edited:
  • #5
All kinds of infections have strange long-term negative sequela, some we know but much of which we are only starting to understand. I have heard a similar report re: left heart failure and correlation to flu prophylaxis but I can't remember what the journal was... I heard it on PusCast.
 

1. How does the flu vaccine reduce the risk of heart attacks?

The flu vaccine helps reduce the risk of heart attacks by preventing the flu virus from infecting the body. When a person gets infected with the flu, their immune system responds by producing inflammatory chemicals that can damage the heart and blood vessels. By getting the flu vaccine, a person can protect themselves from the flu and avoid this inflammatory response, thereby reducing their risk of heart attacks.

2. Is there scientific evidence to support the claim that the flu vaccine reduces heart attack risk?

Yes, there is scientific evidence to support this claim. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that getting the flu vaccine reduced the risk of heart attacks by 36% in people over the age of 50. Additionally, a review of multiple studies also found a strong association between flu vaccination and reduced risk of heart attacks.

3. Does the flu vaccine only reduce the risk of heart attacks in older adults?

No, the flu vaccine can reduce the risk of heart attacks in people of all ages. While the study mentioned above focused on people over the age of 50, other studies have also found a reduced risk of heart attacks in younger adults who receive the flu vaccine.

4. How often do I need to get the flu vaccine to see a reduced risk of heart attacks?

It is recommended to get the flu vaccine every year, as the flu virus strains can change from year to year. By getting the flu vaccine annually, you can ensure that you are protected against the most current strains of the virus and reduce your risk of heart attacks.

5. Are there any potential side effects of getting the flu vaccine to reduce heart attack risk?

As with any vaccine, there may be some mild side effects such as soreness or redness at the injection site, headache, or low-grade fever. These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about potential side effects.

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