J Am Heart Assoc

Acute and chronic viral infections may increase CV risk: Meta-analysis

October 31, 2025

Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, HIV, hepatitis C, and herpes zoster are associated with increased risk of major cardiovascular events. The findings highlight the potential role of vaccines in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk associated with these viral infections.

Study details: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated 155 studies from global databases through July 2024, examining the association between viral infections and CVD, including coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke.

Results:

• Influenza: Associated with a 4-fold increase in MI risk and a 5-fold increase in stroke risk within one month.
• COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2): Associated with a 74% higher risk of CHD and a 69% higher risk of stroke.
• HIV: Associated with a 60% increased risk of CHD and 45% increased risk of stroke.
• Hepatitis C: Elevated CHD risk by 27% and stroke risk by 23%.
• Herpes zoster: Modestly increased CHD and stroke risk.
• Other viruses (e.g., RSV, HPV, dengue) showed limited but suggestive associations.

Source:

Kawai K, et al. (2025, October 29). J Am Heart Assoc. Viral Infections and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41160032/