Shingles vaccine may reduce heart attack and stroke risks

New research suggests that the shingles vaccine may provide cardiovascular and cerebrovascular benefits beyond preventing infection. A study led by James Mbinta, analyzing data from 278,375 adults in New Zealand, found that hospital admissions for heart attacks and strokes significantly decreased during the first six weeks following vaccination. The vaccine appeared to lower the risk of these critical events by approximately 50% during that period.

While the shingles vaccine is primarily used to prevent the painful rash and nerve pain associated with the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus, these findings indicate it may also protect older populations from serious health complications. Similar reductions in stroke risk among vaccinated seniors aged 70 to 79 have been observed in studies from Australia.

In Australia, the shingles vaccine is currently free for individuals aged 65 and over, certain Indigenous groups, and immunocompromised people. However, rising reports of shingles in younger adults aged 25–49 have prompted discussions among experts regarding whether free vaccine eligibility should be expanded.