Shingles Vaccine: A Surprising Ally in Heart Disease Prevention

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Recent research has unveiled a compelling connection between the shingles vaccine and a reduced risk of cardiovascular events. A large-scale study published in the European Heart Journal found that individuals aged 50 and older who received the shingles vaccine experienced a 23% lower risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, with protective effects lasting up to eight years. 

What Should I Know About Shingles and Its Broader Health Implications?

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus responsible for chickenpox. While shingles is primarily known for causing painful skin rashes, it can also lead to serious complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, vision loss, and, notably, increased cardiovascular risks. 

The link between shingles and heart disease is thought to stem from the inflammation and vascular damage triggered by the virus. This inflammation can lead to blood vessel damage and clot formation, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. 

What Does The Study Show Us At A Glance?

Researchers analyzed health data from over 1.2 million adults aged 50 and above in South Korea between 2012 and 2021. Participants who received the live zoster vaccine showed significant reductions in cardiovascular risks:

·         26% lower risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease).

·         26% lower risk of heart failure.

·         22% lower risk of coronary heart disease.

Notably, the protective effects were most pronounced within the first two to three years post-vaccination but persisted for up to eight years. 

Who Benefits the Most?

The study found that certain groups experienced more significant cardiovascular benefits from the shingles vaccine:

·         Men saw stronger protective effects compared to women.

·         Individuals under 60 benefited more than older participants, possibly due to a more robust immune response.

·         Those with unhealthy lifestyles, including smokers, heavy drinkers, and physically inactive individuals, experienced notable risk reductions.

What Are The Implications for Public Health?

These findings suggest that the shingles vaccine could serve as a dual-purpose intervention, preventing both shingles and reducing cardiovascular risks. Given that cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death globally, incorporating shingles vaccination into preventive health strategies could have substantial public health benefits.

However, it's important to note that the study focused on the live zoster vaccine, which has been largely replaced in many countries, including the United States, by the recombinant vaccine Shingrix. Further research is needed to determine if Shingrix offers similar cardiovascular protections.

What Recommendations Should I Follow?

For individuals aged 50 and older:

·         Consult with healthcare providers about receiving the shingles vaccine, especially if you have risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

·         Maintain a healthy lifestyle to complement the protective effects of vaccination.Stay informed about new research regarding vaccines and cardiovascular health.

References

1.      Medical News Today. "Shingles vaccine can lower heart disease risk by 23%, new study finds." May 9, 2025. medicalnewstoday.com

2.      CBS News. "Shingles vaccine lowers risk of heart disease for 8 years, study finds." May 6, 2025. cbsnews.com

3.      CIDRAP. "Shingles vaccine recipients see lower cardiac event risk over time." May 6, 2025. cidrap.umn.edu

4.      Pharmacy Times. "Live shingles vaccine may reduce risk of cardiovascular events by 23%, study finds." May 6, 2025. pharmacytimes.com

5.      Verywell Health. "Getting a Shingles Shot May Benefit Your Heart and Brain." September 1, 2023. verywellhealth.com

6.      Wikipedia. "Shingles." Accessed June 6, 2025. en.wikipedia.org