J Am Coll Cardiol

ACC calls for routine vaccinations in cardiac care

August 28, 2025

The American College of Cardiology’s 2025 Concise Clinical Guidance introduces a streamlined, evidence-based approach to adult immunizations as part of routine CV care. Backed by strong data linking vaccines to reduced CV events and mortality, the guidance urges clinicians to incorporate vaccine discussions into routine visits, use EHR nudges, and adopt team-based strategies to improve uptake and outcomes.

Key recommendations:

• Influenza: Annual vaccination is advised for all adults, especially those with heart disease, to reduce CV events and all-cause mortality. Nasal vaccines aren’t recommended for patients >50 years.
• Pneumococcal: A one-time vaccine is recommended for adults >19 years with heart disease to prevent pneumonia and related complications. Options include PCV20, PCV21, or PCV15 followed by PPSV23.
• COVID-19: An initial two-dose series is recommended for all adults, followed by ≥1 booster with the 2024–25 vaccine for those ≤65 years. Adults ≥65 years with moderate to severe immune deficiency should receive two seasonal boosters: one before winter and one before summer. Guidance may evolve based on viral severity.
• RSV: A single dose is recommended for adults >75 years and those aged 50 to 74 with CV disease to prevent serious respiratory illness.
• Shingles: Two doses are recommended for adults >50 years to reduce the elevated risk of stroke and MI associated with shingles infection.

Sources:

A Heidenreich P, et al. (2025, August 21). J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025 Concise Clinical Guidance: An ACC Expert Consensus Statement on Adult Immunizations as Part of Cardiovascular Care: A Report of the American College of Cardiology Solution Set Oversight Committee. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40856667/

(2025, August 26). American College of Cardiology. New ACC concise clinical guidance consolidates recommendations on immunization as part of CV care. [News release]. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/Journal-Scans/2025/08/26/11/44/New-ACC-CCG-Consolidates-Recommendations-on-Immunization