Viral infections such as COVID, HIV, can raise heart disease risk, but vaccines may help

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association on October 29 finds a significant link between various viral infections and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD, the leading cause of death globally, accounted for over 20 million fatalities in 2021. The study noted that over 80% of CVD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.

The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 155 studies examining this relationship, focusing on infections such as influenza, COVID-19, HIV, hepatitis C, and herpes zoster. The findings indicate that HIV infection correlates with a 65% higher risk of CVD, while COVID-19 markedly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially in the months following infection. Influenza was also linked to an elevated risk for acute myocardial infarction shortly after infection.

Other viral infections like hepatitis C also raised CVD risks, although hepatitis B showed no significant association. In contrast, infections from cytomegalovirus and herpes zoster were connected to increased coronary heart disease risk.

While the study employed robust methodologies to bolster the validity of its conclusions, it also highlighted limitations such as inconsistencies among studies and a lack of data from heavily affected regions. The authors recommend more comprehensive cohort studies in underrepresented demographics and emphasize the importance of preventive strategies like vaccination.