The American College of Cardiology has issued new guidance, recommending adults with heart disease get vaccinated against respiratory illnesses such as RSV, COVID-19, pneumococcal infection, shingles, and influenza. This recommendation marks a shift from previous U.S. guidance, which is being limited by the Trump administration.
People with heart disease are already considered high-risk, according to Dr. William Schaffner, a spokesperson for the college. Vaccine-preventable infections can be more serious in these individuals, causing complications like heart failure and increasing the risk of heart attacks.
Cardiologists are urged to vaccinate their patients or strongly recommend vaccination, the new guidelines state. Vaccination rates for infectious diseases like COVID have declined in recent years, with 6 in 10 U.S. adults saying they’re unlikely to get the updated COVID vaccine.
This guidance contradicts statements from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who promotes vaccine skepticism. However, medical societies continue to recommend vaccines as a way to protect against seasonal viruses.
The American Heart Association and other organizations have defended vaccination policies, stating that vaccine-preventable illnesses can be severe in certain populations, including pregnant women and children.
Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association, hopes that additional credible recommendations will increase trust in vaccines. The Trump administration’s efforts to limit vaccine access, particularly for COVID-19 shots, have raised concerns about misinformation and its potential impact on public health.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/heart-disease-patients-should-get-vaccinated-against-respiratory-illnesses-including-covid-19-cardiology-experts-say