Viral infections linked to higher heart attack, stroke risks
Influenza and COVID infections may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke by 3-5 times in the weeks following infection.
Why it matters
- Viral infections like influenza and COVID significantly increase short-term cardiovascular risks.
- Chronic infections can lead to long-term cardiovascular risks.
- Understanding these links can inform public health strategies, including vaccination.
By the numbers
- Influenza increases heart attack risk by 4x and stroke risk by 5x in the month following infection.
- COVID increases heart attack and stroke risk by 3x in the 14 weeks following infection, with risks remaining elevated for a year.
- Chronic infections like HIV increase heart attack risk by 60% and stroke risk by 45%.
The big picture
- The immune system's response to viral infections, including inflammation and blood clotting, can stress the heart and blood vessels.
- Increased vaccination rates could reduce the overall rate of heart attacks and strokes.
- More research is needed to understand the links between other viruses and cardiovascular risks.
What they're saying
- Comments emphasize the lasting effects of infections on cardiovascular health.
- Experts highlight the role of inflammation in increasing cardiovascular risks.
Caveats
- The analysis was based on observational studies, not randomized controlled trials.
- More research is needed for other viruses.
- The study did not identify high-risk groups like transplant recipients.
What’s next
- Further studies to understand the links between other viruses and cardiovascular risks.
- Potential for increased vaccination rates to reduce cardiovascular risks.