Flu Shot And Heart Disease

As snowflakes swirl and nights grow long, flu season whispers its unwelcome arrival. The influenza virus, while seemingly commonplace, poses a significant threat to those whose hearts already bear an extra burden. One simple, annual step can be a powerful shield against the flu and its potentially devastating complications for people with heart disease.

The flu can cause serious complications for people who have chronic health conditions, leading to hospitalization and potentially death. About 90% of people hospitalized for flu have at least one underlying medical condition, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

These can include heart disease, history of stroke, type 1 or type 2 diabetes, obesity and chronic lung disease, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Stephen Cook, MD, a board-certified cardiologist with Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Heart Physicians, answering your questions about the flu shot and its crucial role in safeguarding your heart and your health this winter. 

Is It Safe To Get Flu Shots If You Have Heart Disease?

Most doctors suggest flu shots for older adults and other high-risk groups of people, including those with heart disease. It is suggested that all persons ages 6 months and older, with few exceptions, get vaccinated each year for common flu strains. 

"There's no data to show that getting the influenza vaccine increases your risk for the development of heart disease or heart attacks," Dr. Cook said.

For those who have heart disease or other chronic conditions, the flu season can be a hazardous time of year. Complications related to the flu are more likely in people with heart disease. The flu shot can reduce your risk of catching the flu or developing flu-related complications.

Flu shots are safe for most people who have heart disease. For those who live with or care for someone who suffers from heart disease, it's a good idea for you to also get a flu shot. Getting a flu shot lowers the risk of infection for yourself and for those around you who may have compromised immune systems.

Are People With Heart Disease More At Risk For Complications From The Flu?

People who already have heart disease might be more prone to develop complications from the flu.

Complications from the flu may include:

• Pneumonia
• Respiratory failure
• Heart attack
• Death.

Having a bout with the flu also can make heart failure, diabetes, asthma or other pre-existing conditions worse. 

"There's been studies to show that patients who have had a flu-like illness are actually at an increased risk for developing heart attacks or heart disease following flu-like illnesses," Dr. Cook said.

Receiving the flu vaccine in patients with heart disease can reduce influenza complications including heart complications such as worsening heart failure or ischemic heart disease, Dr. Cook said. For those who already have heart disease, research suggests getting a flu shot could reduce the risk of having a heart attack or stroke or dying of a cardiovascular event. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Studies are also underway to establish the benefits of high-dose flu shots.

When Should I Not Get A Flu Shot?

Talk to your doctor before getting a flu shot if:

• You're allergic to eggs
• You've had a serious allergic reaction to the flu vaccine in the past
• You have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome that developed after receiving a flu shot
• You have a fever when you go to get a flu shot

When Is The Best Time To Get My Flu Shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting a flu shot every year by the end of October. However, if flu shots aren't yet available or you haven't received yours yet, you can still get a flu shot until January and sometimes even later. Flu season doesn't usually peak until the winter.

The flu shot is typically available through primary care doctors, public health departments and some pharmacies. It's usually best to call ahead to determine if the provider you are considering has the flu vaccine available and if you need an appointment.

HealthDay News contributed information to this article.