Association of Influenza Vaccination With Cardiovascular Risk

Key Points Question Is seasonal influenza vaccination associated with lower rates of adverse cardiovascular events? Findings In this meta-analysis of 6 randomized clinical trials including 9001 adults who were randomized to influenza vaccination vs matching placebo or standard care, 3.6% of vaccinated patients developed a major adverse cardiovascular event within 12 months compared with 5.4% of those who received placebo or control, a 1.8% significant difference translating into a number needed to vaccinate of 56 patients to prevent 1 event. Higher-risk patients with recent acute coronary syndrome had 45% reduced risk. Meaning These results suggest that clinicians and policy makers should continue to counsel high-risk patients on the cardiovascular benefits of seasonal influenza vaccination.