Groundbreaking research suggests the shingles vaccine may offer cardiovascular protection, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes by nearly 20%. A global systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies revealed that adults who received the jab had an 18% lower risk of stroke or heart attack, with a 16% reduction observed in people aged 50 and older.
The study, to be presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Madrid, marks the first worldwide review to investigate this connection. Researchers believe the protective effect may be linked to preventing inflammation caused by shingles, which is a known factor in cardiovascular disease.
While most countries currently restrict vaccination to older or immunosuppressed adults, the findings hint at possible benefits for younger age groups as well. Experts caution, however, that much of the evidence comes from observational studies, meaning further research is needed to confirm a causal link.
Health bodies are already expanding access: from 1 September, NHS England will make 300,000 more people eligible for the shingles jab, including immunocompromised adults aged 18–49. If confirmed in future trials, the vaccine could become an important tool not only in preventing shingles but also in reducing cardiovascular events globally.
