Could the flu vaccine improve the outcomes of patients with heart disease?

This study looked at the use of the flu vaccine in patients with heart disease. It found that patients who had the flu vaccine were more likely to have better cardiovascular outcomes.

The flu can be especially dangerous for patients with heart disease. It can lead to further heart disease or even death. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of contracting the flu. However, it is not clear if this directly affects the risk of major cardiovascular events (MACE) such as heart attacks, strokes, or death in patients with heart disease.

This study reviewed the results of 16 studies involving patients with heart disease who received the flu vaccine. A total of 237,058 patients participated. Patients were followed for an average of 19.5 months.  

Patients who received the flu vaccine were 25% less likely to die from any cause. They were also 18% less likely to die from heart problems. The flu vaccine was also associated with a 13% lower risk of patients having a MACE.

This study showed that the flu vaccine reduces the risk of death in patients with heart disease.

This study analyzed very different studies. Many of the studies included were observational (the authors simply analyzed the records of patients). Further studies would be beneficial to confirm these results.

Discuss with your physician about receiving the flu vaccine and how this would benefit you.