The American College of Cardiology is recommending that adults with heart disease receive routine vaccinations against influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and other respiratory illnesses to reduce cardiovascular complications. The new guidance was published Aug. 26 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
People with heart disease are more likely to become severely ill when exposed to respiratory viruses and face higher risks of hospitalization and death. Studies show that vaccination can reduce these risks and may also lower the likelihood of heart attacks and heart failure, according to an Aug. 26 report by Kaiser Permanente.
The guidance emphasizes flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines but also notes emerging evidence that other immunizations, such as shingles, may provide cardiovascular benefits.
