Fact 8. Regular Vaccination: An Overlooked Aspect of Heart Failure Management
People with heart failure tend to have a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. Certain diseases like influenza and pneumonia can further stress the heart, leading to complications and hospitalizations. Therefore, preventive measures, like regular vaccinations, become an essential part of managing heart failure.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, can be particularly harmful to individuals with heart failure. The body’s response to the flu can cause inflammation that exacerbates heart failure symptoms. Influenza can also lead to pneumonia, a serious lung infection that puts additional strain on the heart. The combined effects of these infections can lead to a significant worsening of heart failure, leading to hospitalization and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
Prevention in the form of annual flu vaccines can reduce the risk of influenza and its complications in heart failure patients. The vaccine prompts the immune system to protect against the virus, significantly lowering the chances of contracting the flu. As a result, it can prevent the potential worsening of heart failure symptoms associated with the disease.
Similarly, pneumonia vaccines can protect against many types of pneumococcal bacteria, the most common cause of pneumonia. Given that heart failure patients are at increased risk of pneumonia and its complications, this vaccine is another essential preventive measure.
Besides influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, heart failure patients may also benefit from other vaccinations, such as the COVID-19 vaccine. However, the choice of vaccines should always be discussed with a healthcare provider considering the individual’s overall health condition and potential vaccine interactions. (8)
