Viral Infections Linked to Considerably Increased Heart Attack adn Stroke Risk
Los Angeles, CA – New research indicates that even common viral infections like the flu and COVID-19 can dramatically raise the risk of acute cardiovascular events. A extensive overview study, led by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, found a substantial link between viral infections and heart attack and stroke.
The study, analyzing over 155 research papers spanning 1997-2024, revealed that the risk of heart attack or stroke increases four to five times in the four weeks following a flu infection.COVID-19 infection carries roughly a threefold increased risk during the same period.
Researchers attribute this heightened risk to the body’s immune response to viral infections. This response triggers inflammation and promotes blood clotting, both of which can negatively impact the cardiovascular system.
Beyond flu and COVID-19, the study identified increased cardiovascular risks associated with other viruses, though to a lesser degree. HIV infection was linked to a 60% increase in heart attack risk and a 45% increase in stroke risk. Hepatitis C showed a 27% and 23% increase for heart attack and stroke respectively. Even shingles (varicella-zoster virus) was associated with a 12% increase in heart attack risk and an 18% increase in stroke risk. Notably, the risks associated with HIV, Hepatitis C, and shingles persist over longer periods, and shingles is a common infection, affecting roughly one in three people.
“The connection between viral infections and cardiovascular disease is less well understood than the link between viruses and cancer,” explained lead researcher Kosuke Kawai. “Our findings highlight the importance of prevention, especially for individuals already at risk for heart disease.”
The study authors strongly advocate for increased vaccination rates against viruses known to impact cardiovascular health. They point to previous research demonstrating a 34% reduction in the risk of serious cardiovascular disease among those who receive a flu vaccination.
Further research is needed to fully understand the connection between cardiovascular disease and other widespread viruses like herpes simplex virus 1, hepatitis A, and those causing dengue and chikungunya fever.
(Source: dpa news channel)
