Influenza Vaccination for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in the Americas: Consensus document of the Inter-American Society of Cardiology and the Word Heart Federation

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular mortality is decreasing but remains the leading cause of death world-wide. Respiratory infections such as influenza significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease. Despite of proven benefits, influenza vaccination is not fully implemented, especially in Latin America. Objective: The aim was to develop a regional consensus with recommendations regarding influenza vaccination and cardiovascular disease. Methods: A multidisciplinary team composed by experts in the management and prevention of cardiovascular disease from the Americas, convened by the Inter-American Society of Cardiology (IASC) and the World Heart Federation (WHF), participated in the process and the formulation of statements. The modified RAND/UCLA methodology was used. This document was supported by a grant from the WHF. Results: An extensive literature search was divided into seven questions, and a total of 23 conclusions and 29 recommendations were achieved. There was no disagreement among experts in the conclusions or recommendations. Conclusions: There is a strong correlation between influenza and cardiovascular events. Influenza vaccination is not only safe and a proven strategy to reduce cardiovascular events, but it is also cost saving. We found several barriers for its global implementation and potential strategies to overcome them.

HEARTS in the Americas clinical pathway. Strengthening the decision support system to improve hypertension and cardiovascular disease risk management in primary care settings

“…The HEARTS clinical pathway goes further to show its integrative and contemporary essence. For example, despite a well-known association between respiratory infectious diseases and cardiovascular complications ( 27 – 29 ), the vaccination rate among patients at high risk for CVD is very low ( 30 ). Therefore, the HEARTS Clinical Pathway incorporated an immunization chart as part of the continuum of care.…”

Knowledge of Silesia adult inhabitants regarding preventive vaccinations effect on cardiovascular diseases

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“…In recent years, viral infections such as influenza have been associated with myocardial infarction and other complications of atherosclerosis ( Kwok et al, 2015 ). Influenza vaccination has reduced the risk of main cardiovascular outcomes and has been proposed as part of the therapeutic strategies for patients with coronary heart disease or at high cardiovascular risk ( Diaz-Arocutipa et al, 2022 ; Liprandil et al, 2021 ).…”