URGENT UPDATE: New research has revealed a shocking link between Covid-19 and influenza infections, significantly increasing the risk of serious heart problems. A comprehensive review of 155 academic papers confirms that contracting these viral illnesses could elevate the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes by three to five times in the weeks following infection.
The study, published by the American Heart Association, underscores the pressing need for vaccinations, particularly among individuals with existing cardiovascular risk factors. Lead author Associate Professor Kosuke Kawai from the University of California stated, “Acute and chronic viral infections are linked to both short- and long-term risks of cardiovascular disease, including strokes and heart attacks.”
Researchers analyzed an initial pool of 52,000 studies, narrowing it down to only the highest quality research for their combined analysis. Findings showed that individuals infected with laboratory-confirmed influenza faced a fourfold increase in heart attack risk and a fivefold increase in stroke risk within the first month post-infection. Similarly, those who contracted Covid-19 were found to be three times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke within 14 weeks after their illness, with this heightened risk persisting for up to a year.
The analysis also highlighted the risks associated with other viral infections, including HIV, which posed a 60% higher risk of heart attacks and a 45% increased risk of strokes over a five-year period. Hepatitis C and shingles were similarly linked to elevated cardiovascular risks.
Dr. Kawai emphasized the significance of these findings, noting, “The elevated risks for cardiovascular disease are lower for HIV, hepatitis C, and herpes zoster than the heightened short-term risk following influenza and Covid. However, these risks remain clinically relevant, especially given their prolonged nature.”
Despite the study’s observational nature and inherent limitations, the research team strongly advocates for vaccination as a vital strategy to mitigate these cardiovascular dangers. The NHS offers flu vaccines each autumn or early winter, targeting individuals at increased risk of serious health complications.
This urgent health alert underscores the critical importance of understanding the intersection between viral infections and heart health. As the world continues to navigate the ongoing impacts of Covid-19 and influenza, public health officials stress the need for proactive measures to safeguard cardiovascular health.
Stay informed and protect yourself: consider vaccination as a crucial step in reducing your risk of serious health complications. Share this vital information to help others stay aware of the potential dangers posed by Covid and the flu.
