Influenza vaccination in mitigating vascular events and risk

Influenza, a global health concern, is closely linked to acute cardiovascular events and increased cardiovascular mortality. Recent research, drawing from a massive dataset of 22,634,643 hospitalizations, reveals compelling evidence. Influenza vaccination demonstrates significant benefits, reducing the risk of myocardial infarction, transient ischemic attack, cardiac arrest, stroke, and overall mortality. These findings underscore the effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccination in mitigating cardiovascular risk. To safeguard against influenza-related cardiovascular complications and adverse outcomes, there's a pressing need to boost vaccination rates, particularly among individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.

Purpose of review

Influenza imparts a significant health burden on the United States and global population. Furthermore, influenza is associated with acute cardiovascular events, including heart failure exacerbations, acute coronary syndromes, strokes, and overall cardiovascular mortality. We review the role of seasonal influenza vaccination in mitigating cardiovascular risk.

Recent findings

A large study assessed the impact of influenza vaccine on cardiovascular outcomes and mortality using the US National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. This study included 22 634 643 hospitalizations. Vaccination against influenza was associated with a reduction in myocardial infarctions (MI) [relative risk (RR) = 0.84, 95% CI 0.82-0.87, P < 0.001], transient ischemic attacks (RR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.9-0.96, P < 0.001), cardiac arrests (RR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.33-0.39, P < 0.001), strokes (RR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.91-0.97, P < 0.001), and overall mortality (RR = 0.38, 95% CI 0.36-0.4, P < 0.001).

Summary

Available data suggests that seasonal influenza vaccination is very effective in mitigating cardiovascular risk. Increasing the rates of influenza vaccination, especially among those with cardiovascular risk factors, is critical in preventing infection and attenuating influenza-related cardiovascular complications and adverse outcomes.

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