Vaccination as a new form of cardiovascular prevention: a European Society of Cardiology clinical consensus statement
Bettina Heidecker, Peter Libby, Vassilios S. Vassiliou, François Roubille, Orly Vardeny, Christian Hassager, Michael Α. Gatzoulis, Mamas A. Mamas, Leslie T. Cooper, Felix Schoenrath, Marco Metra, Offer Amir, Scott Solomon, Ulf Landmesser, Thomas F. Lüscher
Abstract
Vaccination is increasingly acknowledged as an effective preventive measure not only against specific infections, but also for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in high-risk patients. Specifically, a growing body of evidence suggests that vaccines against influenza, SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes zoster, and other viruses significantly reduce infection and for influenza the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events in vaccinated individuals. This clinical consensus statement examines the existing literature and accumulated evidence and offers practical clinical advice on vaccination timing and target demographics, specifically addressing complex clinical scenarios with a focus on cardiovascular conditions. It includes guidelines for vaccinating vulnerable populations such as immunosuppressed individuals, patients with congenital heart disease, and pregnant women as well as safety and potential complications of the procedure.