New research reveals that several viral infections, including flu, shingles, HIV, and hepatitis C, can significantly raise the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases. While Covid-19 has long been associated with serious heart complications, this latest analysis shows that many other viruses also pose hidden threats to heart health. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, analyzed data from 155 studies conducted over several decades. Researchers found that people who contracted viral infections were more likely to experience heart-related issues, both immediately after being infected and over the long term. According to the findings, individuals who caught influenza were up to six times more likely to suffer a heart attack within a month of infection. Similarly, those who had Covid-19 were nearly twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease or stroke compared to those who had never been infected.
Common Viral Infections May Increase Risk of Heart Attack and Other Cardiovascular ProblemsFlu
Lead author Dr. Kosuke Kawai, an adjunct professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, emphasized that vaccination plays a crucial role in prevention. We often get vaccinated to avoid the flu or other illnesses, but vaccines may also help protect against cardiovascular disease, Kawai said. The study found that short-term viral infections such as influenza and Covid-19 were closely linked with acute heart attack and other sudden cardiovascular events. On the other hand, chronic infections including HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles were associated with a long-term increase in heart and stroke risk. Researchers also noted that other viruses, such as cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, HPV, RSV, dengue, and chikungunya, may contribute to cardiovascular problems, although more studies are needed to confirm these links.
Dr. Scott Roberts, associate medical director for infection prevention at Yale School of Medicine, explained how viral infections can harm the heart. Many infections raise cardiovascular risk in two ways, he said. They either trigger inflammation and blood clotting that strain the heart or directly attack heart tissue. Most respiratory viruses, including Covid-19, flu, and RSV, raise the risk indirectly by creating excessive immune responses. However, some viruses, like enteroviruses, can directly damage the heart muscle itself. Roberts added that the severity of an infection often determines how high the risk of heart attack or cardiovascular complications will be.
Kawai noted that even younger and healthier individuals are not immune. It’s not just those with preexisting heart conditions, he said. “People without known risk factors can also face increased cardiovascular risks after viral infection. The researchers concluded that preventive strategies, such as vaccination and timely antiviral treatments, could help lower the global burden of cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Vaccines for many of these viruses reduce the likelihood of severe infection, which in turn lessens the risk of heart attack or other complications, Roberts explained.
Experts advise that anyone concerned about heart problems after infection should speak with their healthcare provider for guidance and preventive care.
source:CNN
