In a new study, researchers have found a link between the influenza virus, cold temperatures, and an increased risk of type 1 heart attacks in people over the age of 60.
The study’s findings, which were published in April in the Journal of the American Heart Association, show why annual flu vaccination is a key tool for preventing serious illness—both from the flu and other causes.
The study included data on 8,240 people who had type 1 heart attacks over five consecutive flu seasons in Madrid, Spain. The researchers found an independent relationship between the flu virus and cold temperatures—factors that appear to play a part in the plaque rupture that leads to a heart attack.
The authors of the study concluded that receiving a flu vaccine could reduce the risk for type 1 heart attacks in people aged 60 and up.
“This is a reminder that the flu vaccine does more than protect us from getting the flu,” Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, FAAFP, chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association (AHA), tells Verywell. “The combination of getting the flu vaccine and managing Life’s Simple 7 are the best ways to reduce the chances of a plaque-rupturing heart attack.”
Flu and Heart Attack Risk
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults are six times more at risk of having a heart attack in the week following a case of the flu.
Research suggests that the flu virus can trigger a cytokine storm that produces widespread inflammation in arterial walls, which can lead to plaque disruption, arterial blockage, and a heart attack.
“Inflammation caused by an infection can go everywhere in the body including plaque,” Alan Yeung, MD, medical director of cardiovascular health at Stanford Medicine in California, tells Verywell. “When there is less flu, there is less incidence of type 1 heart attacks.”
Benefits of a Flu Shot
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the influenza vaccine does not just help prevent the flu—it also reduces older adults’ chances of dying from heart disease by 18%. It also reduces their risk of dying from other causes by 28%.
The influenza vaccine offers many health benefits for people of all ages. According to the CDC, getting an annual flu shot may:
Prevent illness and flu-related doctor’s visits Reduce the chance of flu-related hospitalizations Reduce severe chronic lung disease Reduce the risk of severe complications of diabetes Protect people who are pregnant or have recently given birth Protect vulnerable people around you Protects infants who are too young to be vaccinated
The flu shot may also reduce the severity of COVID-19-related illness. Additionally, the same hand-washing, mask-wearing, and social distancing precautions in place during the COVID-19 pandemic can also help decrease the spread of the flu virus.
Heart Attack Prevention
After you get your flu shot, there are also other ways you can reduce your risk of heart disease and having a heart attack.
The AHA outlines Life’s Simple 7—seven lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke:
Manage Blood Pressure Control Cholesterol Reduce Blood Sugar Get Active Eat Better Lose Weight Stop Smoking
The Importance of Managing Stress
One of the best actions you can take for your heart and overall health is finding effective ways to reduce your stress levels.
Chronic stress has been associated with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are linked to poor cardiovascular health. Stress can also lead to overeating, smoking, and higher alcohol intake—practices that can also negatively affect heart health.
Other ways you can work on lowering your stress levels include getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, using mindfulness and meditation, and talking with a mental health professional.
