Ajax residents heading into flu season have one more reason to book their vaccinations: Lakeridge Health says the shots protect not only your lungs, but your heart and blood vessels as well.
In a public health message posted this fall, according to Lakeridge Health, the Durham Region hospital network explains that influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) trigger inflammation as the body fights off infection. That inflammation can make blood stickier and put extra stress on the heart.
For people who already have plaque built up in their arteries, that added stress can cause a clot — potentially leading to a heart attack, a stroke, or a flare-up of heart failure.
Why the risk goes up after infection
Lakeridge Health says the risk of a heart attack rises sharply in the days and weeks after a serious respiratory infection, especially among older adults and people with diabetes, lung disease or existing heart problems.
The hospital network points to research suggesting vaccines against respiratory infections may help protect the heart, particularly for older people and those who already have heart disease.
The message also addresses concerns some residents may have heard about heart problems after COVID-19 vaccination. Lakeridge Health acknowledges that in rare cases, mRNA COVID-19 vaccines can cause swelling of the heart muscle called myocarditis, especially in young men. However, the network says large studies have found no increased risk of heart attacks or strokes after COVID-19 vaccination.
Who should get what this fall
The flu vaccine is recommended every year for everyone aged six months and older.
The updated COVID-19 vaccine is also available to everyone aged six months and older, and Lakeridge Health says it is especially important for older adults, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions. Both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are free in Ontario.
The RSV vaccine is free in Ontario for everyone aged 75 and older, as well as certain higher-risk adults aged 60 to 74. Lakeridge Health notes that people who have already received an RSV vaccine do not currently need another dose.
A pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for adults aged 65 and older, and for some younger people with health conditions that increase their risk. A health care provider can determine whether a dose is needed based on an individual's vaccination history.
Lakeridge Health is encouraging Ajax residents to speak with their doctor, nurse practitioner or pharmacist about which vaccines are right for them, to help protect both their lungs and their heart this fall.
