Flu Risks for People with Heart Disease

Flu Risks for People with Heart Disease

Flu Risks for People with Heart Disease

Heart disease can make your body too weak to fight off the flu. In recognition of American Heart Month, Flu.gov wants to give you the information you need to fight illness this flu season.
The best protection is to get the flu vaccine. People with heart disease should get the flu shot, not the nasal spray.
If you have heart disease, you are at increased risk of having a heart attack if you get the flu. Heart disease also increases your risk of experiencing flu-related complications such as pneumonia.
If you have any flu-like symptoms, contact your health care provider immediately. In addition to following treatment recommendations from your health care provider, you should continue taking your prescription medications. If you notice changes in your breathing contact your health care provider or go to an emergency room immediately.
In addition to getting vaccinated, follow our everyday steps to keep yourself healthy this flu season.

• Learn more about CDC’s Million Hearts initiative. 
• Find a place to get the flu vaccine in your area

Everybody can do their part to help prevent the spread of germs and protect themselves from the flu. Follow us on Twitter  (@FluGov) for a different flu tip each Friday (#FluTips).