A recent extensive study suggests that contracting the flu, Covid-19, or other similar viral infections may significantly raise the risk of serious heart issues. Research based on a review of 155 academic papers indicates that influenza and Covid-19 infections could amplify the likelihood of heart attacks or strokes by three to five times in the weeks following the infection.
Moreover, more persistent viruses such as HIV, hepatitis C, and varicella zoster virus could also heighten the long-term chances of cardiovascular events. The analysis, published by the American Heart Association, emphasizes the potential importance of vaccination in reducing these risks, especially for individuals with cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Lead researcher Associate Professor Kosuke Kawai from the University of California highlighted the study’s findings, stating that viral infections, whether acute or chronic, are associated with both short- and long-term risks of cardiovascular diseases like strokes and heart attacks. The study involved a systematic examination of published studies linking viral infections to stroke or heart attack risks.
Out of 52,000 initial studies reviewed, only 155 were selected for comprehensive analysis due to their quality and design. Results revealed a four-fold increase in the risk of heart attacks and a five-fold increase in the risk of strokes in the month following confirmed influenza infection.
Similarly, individuals infected with Covid-19 were three times more likely to experience a heart attack and stroke within 14 weeks post-infection, with the heightened risk persisting for a year. The study also showed that people with HIV faced a 60% higher risk of heart attacks and a 45% increased risk of strokes over an average of five years, along with elevated risks for those with hepatitis C and shingles.
Dr. Kawai emphasized that while the cardiovascular risks associated with HIV, hepatitis C, and herpes zoster are relatively lower compared to the short-term risks following influenza and Covid-19, they are still clinically significant, particularly due to their long-lasting impact. The research, though observational in nature, underscores the potential importance of vaccinations in lowering cardiovascular risks.
Flu vaccinations are specifically designed to protect against influenza, a potentially fatal infection for certain individuals. The NHS administers these vaccinations to people at higher risk of severe health complications each autumn or early winter.
Six primary groups were eligible for flu vaccinations starting from September 1 this year, with an additional six categories becoming eligible from October 1. It is recommended that certain individuals also receive a winter Covid-19 vaccination this year. For more details, visit the NHS website.