Pillars of Protection: Essential Adult Vaccinations for Heart Disease Patients – ESC Congress 2025, Madrid
Pillars of Protection: Essential Adult Vaccinations for Heart Disease Patients – ESC Congress 2025, Madrid
In the ESC Congress 2025 – Madrid session, experts will highlight how targeted immunizations can significantly reduce infection-related cardiovascular risks in patients with heart disease.
Date & Time: Friday, 29 August 2025 | 15:15–16:00 CEST
Location: IFEMA Madrid & Virtual Attendance
Source: European Society of Cardiology (ESC) – www.escardio.org
Summary – Vaccinations Recommended for Heart Disease Patients
1. Background – Infection & Heart Risk
• Acute infections significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular events (e.g., MI, HF exacerbation).
• Patients with pre-existing heart disease are more vulnerable to severe complications from infections.
2. Causal Link & Risk Modification
• Preventing infections through vaccination is a modifiable factor that can reduce CVD risk and improve clinical outcomes.
3. Key Recommended Vaccines for Adults with Heart Disease
• Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Annual immunization reduces flu-related cardiac complications and mortality.
• Pneumococcal Vaccine: Protects against bacterial pneumonia, which can trigger cardiac decompensation.
• COVID-19 Vaccine: Prevents severe COVID-19 illness, which can precipitate myocarditis, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine: Now available for adults ≥60 and high-risk patients; reduces RSV-related pneumonia and exacerbations.
• Herpes Zoster (Shingles) Vaccine: Recommended to prevent shingles and its inflammatory complications, which can increase CV stress.
• Hepatitis B Vaccine: For patients with specific exposure risks (e.g., healthcare work, chronic illness).
• Tdap/Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis): Standard adult schedule with boosters every 10 years; pertussis prevention is important for respiratory protection.
4. Role of Cardiologists in Immunization
• Cardiologists should advocate for vaccination as part of comprehensive CVD care.
• Immunization discussions should be integrated into routine clinic visits.
5. Closing Gaps in Practice
• Despite strong evidence, vaccination uptake remains low among CVD patients.
• Strategies include patient education, EHR reminders, and collaboration with primary care.
