The following is a summary of “Influenza vaccination and major cardiovascular risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials studies,” published in the November 2023 issue of Infectious Disease by Omidi et al.

Addressing the pervasive threat of cardiovascular events necessitates innovative preventive approaches. This study aimed to evaluate the potential impact of influenza vaccination on major cardiovascular events through a comprehensive analysis of medical literature up to August 1, 2023, utilizing PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL.

Through meta-analysis and stratified assessments, specific outcomes such as myocardial infarction (MI), cardiovascular death, and stroke were scrutinized. The study encompassed 9,059 patients, including 4,529 receiving the influenza vaccine and 4,530 administered a placebo. A compelling reduction in major cardiovascular events was evident among patients vaccinated against influenza, displaying 517 cases compared to 621 cases in the placebo group (Relative Risk (RR) 0.70; 95% CI 0.55–0.91).

Further stratification showcased a lowered risk of MI in vaccinated individuals (RR 0.74; 95% CI 0.56–0.97) and a significant reduction in cardiovascular-related mortality events (RR 0.67; 95% CI 0.45–0.98). These findings strongly suggest a correlation between influenza vaccination and decreased significant cardiovascular events, particularly myocardial infarction and cardiovascular death.

This study’s implications underline influenza vaccination’s potential as an adjunctive measure in cardiovascular disease prevention. However, further comprehensive research is imperative to elucidate underlying mechanisms and validate these observed beneficial effects. The findings herein emphasize the importance of considering influenza vaccination as part of a holistic strategy in averting major cardiovascular events, contributing to the evolving landscape of preventive healthcare practices.

Source: nature.com/articles/s41598-023-47690-9