Vaccination as a new form of cardiovascular prevention: a European Society of Cardiology clinical consensus statement
Vaccination is increasingly recognised as an effective preventive strategy not only against specific infections but also for reducing cardiovascular disease risk in high-risk individuals. In particular, a growing body of evidence indicates that vaccines against influenza, SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes zoster, and other viral pathogens can significantly lower infection rates and, in the case of influenza, reduce the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events.
This clinical consensus statement, led by Prof. Bettina Heidecker and Prof. Thomas F. Lüscher, reviews the current literature and available evidence, offering practical guidance on vaccination timing and identifying target groups. It addresses complex clinical scenarios, especially in the context of cardiovascular disease, and provides recommendations for vaccinating vulnerable populations such as immunocompromised individuals, patients with congenital heart conditions, and pregnant women, as well as considerations regarding safety and potential complications.
Florian Wenzl