Shingles and cardiovascular diseases
Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death in Austria, accounting for over 30% of all deaths
Cardiovascular diseases include coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, valvular heart disease and stroke. Cardiovascular diseases often lead to chronic disorders and a reduced quality of life for those affected.
Increased risk of developing shingles in patients with cardiovascular diseases
Shingles is usually a very painful inflammation of the nerves which, regardless of age, poses a particular risk to patients whose immune system is weakened by an existing underlying disease.
Underlying illnesses can also increase the risk of complications or severe courses of shingles. In addition, immunocompromised people are more likely to suffer a recurrence of shingles.
An underlying cardiovascular disease increases the risk of contracting shingles by
Vaccination protects against shingles
Vaccination against shingles can prevent the disease and possible complications.
In Austria, vaccination is recommended for individuals with a particularly high risk of shingles (severe underlying diseases including those with diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, COPD, or asthma and/or severe immunosuppression) from the age of 18 years onwards.
Learn more about shingles (herpes zoster)
Shingles is a disease that is often underestimated, although it can affect almost anyone. Find out more about the cause of this nerve inflammation, symptoms, possible complications, prevention and treatment.
NP-AT-HZU-WCNT-240024, 12/2024