Vaccines—for the flu, COVID-19 and other infections—are a ‘foundational pillar’ of heart protection

Michael Walter | July 02, 2025 | Cardiovascular Business | Policy & Regulations

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Staying up to date with vaccinations is an important way for heart patients to prevent cardiovascular events, according to a new clinical consensus statement from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).

“We have known for many years that influenza can increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and can exacerbate heart failure,” senior author Thomas F. Lüscher, MD, ESC’s president, said in a statement. “More recently, evidence suggests that other respiratory infections are also associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The new publication describes how vaccinations not only prevent infections but also reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly in susceptible individuals.”

The document, published in European Heart Journal, summarizes the latest data on how vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus and other infections can limit certain health risks among patients.[1] Its authors also review clinical practice guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association, highlighting the fact that cardiology groups all over the world seem to agree on the significant benefits of being vaccinated.

Vaccinations remain a source of controversy, especially in the United States, due to the perceived potential of adverse side effects. The document’s authors discuss these risks as well, emphasizing that adverse reactions are “very rare.” They also look at the potential risks and benefits associated with vaccinating certain patient populations, including pregnant women and other vulnerable patient groups.

“Prevention is crucial for reducing the considerable burden of cardiovascular disease,” Lüscher said. “The totality of the evidence indicates that vaccinations should become a foundational pillar of preventive strategies alongside other established measures.”

The European Association of Preventive Cardiology, Association for Acute CardioVascular Care and Heart Failure Association of the ESC all contributed to the document as well.

Click here to read the full clinical consensus statement.

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Michael Walter, Managing Editor

Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.

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