New research indicates that Covid-19 infections have been strongly linked to cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease and stroke, while other viral infections, including influenza, HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles, also elevate the risk of heart problems and cardiovascular disease, reports BritPanorama.
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reviewed 155 studies conducted over several decades. The findings suggest that viral infections can increase the likelihood of heart disease both immediately after an infection and over the long term.
Individuals who contracted the flu were found to be up to six times more likely to experience a heart attack in the month following infection, while those infected with Covid-19 had nearly double the risk of developing heart disease or stroke compared to uninfected individuals.
The lead study author, Dr. Kosuke Kawai, emphasized the significance of vaccination as a preventative measure. “Often, we get vaccinated to reduce the risk of influenza or other illness, but I think vaccines can provide additional benefit in terms of potentially protecting against cardiovascular disease,” he stated.
The research also concluded that both influenza and Covid-19 infections are associated with a higher risk of acute cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks. In contrast, chronic viral infections—like HIV and hepatitis C—are tied to a long-term elevated risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
Furthermore, the study noted additional viruses, including cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, hepatitis A, human papillomavirus (HPV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), dengue, and chikungunya, have been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, although further investigation is needed to clarify these associations.
How does a virus affect the heart?
These findings align with observations from clinicians like Dr. Scott Roberts, who noted that respiratory viruses can raise cardiovascular risk by triggering severe immune responses that cause inflammation and blood clotting affecting the heart, or by directly attacking heart tissue.
Dr. Roberts further explained that most respiratory viruses, including Covid-19 and the flu, generally pose risks through indirect pathways, whereas certain enterovirus strains can directly infect heart muscle. “Generally, the more severe the viral illness, the greater the risk of cardiovascular complications,” he added.
Dr. Kawai indicated that the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease post-infection varies and emphasized that everyone should take protective measures. “It also depends on the viral infection… Those who might not have traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease are also at increased risk after a viral infection,” he remarked.
Prevention is key
The researchers highlighted the importance of integrated preventive measures, especially for adults with traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors. They concluded that vaccines and timely antiviral treatment could mitigate the burden of cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death globally.
Dr. Roberts noted that vaccines typically reduce the severity of infections, consequently lessening the risk of cardiovascular events. “Vaccines for many of these viruses exist and generally lessen the risk of cardiovascular events after infection,” he explained.
In people with healthy immune systems, vaccines provide protection without causing cardiovascular disease, as they usually contain inactivated viruses or specific subunits that do not induce harmful immune responses or directly attack heart tissues.
Health professionals encourage those concerned about the risk of heart complications post-infection to consult their doctors for personalized advice and preventive strategies.
