Flu and Shingles Also Strike the Heart!

A newly published study has revealed that viral infections can have serious and lasting effects on the cardiovascular system. In an analysis reviewing 155 studies spanning decades, infections such as COVID-19, influenza (flu), HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles were shown to increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease.

According to the research, in people who have the flu, the risk of heart attack rises up to sixfold within the first month after infection. In people who have had COVID-19, the risk of developing heart disease or stroke is about twice as high as in uninfected individuals. Chronic viral infections such as HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles were reported to increase the long-term risk of coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular events.

Experts state that viruses can affect the heart through two different mechanisms: first, by creating stress and clotting in the vascular system through an excessive immune response and inflammation; and second, by some viruses directly infecting the heart muscle. The study also points out that other viral infections such as RSV, HPV, cytomegalovirus, dengue fever, and chikungunya may also be associated with cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion
Viral infections should be seen not merely as a temporary health problem but as an important risk factor that threatens cardiovascular health in both the acute and chronic phases.

Source
Koda, A. (2025, October 29). Common viral infections like flu and shingles can raise your risk of heart attack and stroke, analysis finds. KTVZ. https://ktvz.com/health/cnn-health/2025/10/29/common-viral-infections-like-flu-and-shingles-can-raise-your-risk-of-heart-attack-and-stroke-analysis-finds/