Flu and COVID Raise Heart Attack, Stroke Risks Three to Fivefold

Recent comprehensive research, including a review of 155 studies published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, shows that viral infections such as COVID-19 and influenza significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes shortly after infection. COVID-19 can triple the risk of cardiovascular events within weeks of infection, while influenza can quadruple the risk of heart attacks and quintuple the risk of strokes in the month following illness. The increased risk is believed to be caused by the body's immune response triggering inflammation and blood clotting. Persistent viral infections like HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles are also linked to a longer-term elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, though to a lesser extent. The research underscores the importance of vaccination and preventive measures, particularly for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors. These findings highlight the broader impact of viral infections beyond respiratory symptoms, emphasizing the need for awareness and proactive health management.