Flu shot may reduce heart attack risk
According to the findings reported in the Canadian Medical Associations, seasonal influenza vaccination appears to have an effect on the rates of acute MI (Myocardial infarction).
In the UK study, researchers examined patients from 379 family practices, 40 and over, discovering that seasonal flu vaccine was associated with a 19 percent reduction in first heart attack. However, pneumococcal vaccination demonstrated no added benefit.
Because people with risk factors for heart attacks were more likely to be vaccinated than those with no risk factors, the researchers adjusted for possible bias in the sample.
“Our findings reinforce current recommendations for annual influenza vaccination of target groups,” writes Dr. A. Niroshan Siriwardena of the University of Lincoln in United Kingdom.
The researchers made an adjustment for possible study bias that could result from higher rates of vaccination among patients with known heart disease.While the researchers attempted to factor in the study patients general health and lifestyle, it was limited to the information available in medical records.
The researchers concluded that if further research indicates similar effect, it is likely to change the recommended timing and indication of vaccinations.