Influenza vaccination linked to reduced cardiovascular risks

Jaime Jesús Pérez Martín, president of the Spanish Association of Vaccinology (AEV), is emphasizing the importance of influenza vaccination ahead of the upcoming immunization campaign. He warns against minimizing the disease, noting that while symptoms often last one to two weeks, the infection can lead to severe complications, hospitalizations, and death in high-risk groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying pathologies.

Beyond preventing respiratory infection, vaccination is linked to reducing cardiovascular risks, such as myocardial infarction. Pérez Martín highlighted the impact of immunization by citing data from the United Kingdom during the 2024-2025 season, where vaccination reportedly prevented approximately 100,000 hospitalizations. He also noted that for infants under six months who cannot be vaccinated, maternal vaccination during pregnancy is a critical method of protection.