A Dutch observational registry-based study evaluated the link between PCR-positive influenza and subsequent acute myocardial infarction (MI) risk. It found that the incidence of MI was 6 times higher within one week of influenza diagnosis compared to a control period. The relative incidence was 16.6 in patients without coronary artery disease (CAD) and 1.4 in those with CAD. Antithrombotic use was linked to a lower MI risk (4.1 vs. 13.5). These findings suggest flu vaccination might prevent MI, especially in older adults.
de Boer AR et al. Influenza infection and acute myocardial infarction. NEJM Evid 2024 Jul; 3:EVIDoa2300361. (https://doi.org/10.1056/EVIDoa2300361)