Flu Shot Reduces Risk of Heart Attack

Getting your annual flu shot may do more than just protect you from influenza - research shows it can also significantly reduce your risk of having a heart attack. This connection between flu vaccination and cardiovascular protection highlights another important reason to stay up to date on your immunizations.

The Research Evidence

Multiple studies have demonstrated a link between flu vaccination and reduced cardiovascular events:

A meta-analysis of clinical trials found that flu vaccination was associated with a 36% lower risk of major cardiovascular events.
The protective effect was even stronger in patients who had recently experienced a heart attack or acute coronary syndrome.
Research shows that flu vaccination may reduce the risk of heart attack by up to 45% in some populations.

How Flu Affects the Heart

Influenza infection can stress the cardiovascular system in several ways:

Inflammation: The flu triggers a systemic inflammatory response that can destabilize arterial plaques and promote blood clots.
Increased Oxygen Demand: Fever and infection increase the heart's workload at a time when the body is already stressed.
Dehydration: Flu symptoms can lead to dehydration, which thickens the blood and increases clotting risk.
Direct Heart Damage: In some cases, the flu virus can cause myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).

Who Benefits Most

While flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, certain groups may see particular cardiovascular benefits:

People with existing heart disease
Those who have had a heart attack or stroke
Adults over age 65
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
Individuals with heart failure

Timing Matters

The best time to get your flu shot is in early fall, before flu season begins. However, getting vaccinated later in the season still provides protection. The flu vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective.

Talk to Your Doctor