Health
RSV Vaccine: Heart Health Protection After 45
Health Points
- RSV infection raises risk for heart attack and stroke, most notably in adults 85+, the recently hospitalized, and those with heart conditions.
- The first month after RSV illness is the period of highest heart risk.
- CDC advises RSV vaccination for everyone 75+ and those 50 to 74 at increased risk.
Recent research suggests that staying up to date with RSV vaccination may help safeguard your heart, particularly for older adults and those with preexisting health conditions.
Experts highlight that RSV can cause not only respiratory illness but also raise the chances of cardiovascular events within the month after infection.
“The results suggest that RSV vaccination might help prevent cardiovascular events,” says Anders Hviid, study author and epidemiology professor.
Deciding to get the RSV vaccine is particularly important if you’re over 50 or have underlying health issues, as the vaccine greatly reduces hospitalization risk.
Talk to your healthcare provider to see if RSV vaccination is right for you, and keep your heart protected year-round.
