New research from Denmark suggests that influenza vaccination not only prevents the flu but also significantly reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular complications in those who still fall ill.
A study published in Eurosurveillance has found that flu vaccination can lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, even among individuals who contract the virus.
Researchers analysed health data from 1,221 adults over the age of 40 in Denmark and discovered that within the first week after a flu infection, the risk of hospitalisation for a heart attack rose approximately fivefold, while the risk of stroke tripled. Vaccinated individuals, however, faced roughly half this additional risk, even if they still became ill.
The study drew on several flu seasons and compared viral test results, hospital admissions, and vaccination records. This approach allowed scientists to assess risks for the same people across different periods, minimising the impact of other factors.
The authors emphasise that the flu jab protects not only against infection itself but also against severe cardiovascular consequences. They argue that these findings provide an extra reason for vaccination, particularly for those at higher risk of heart disease.
