RSV and shingles can raise risks for people with heart disease

The Cardiac and Respiratory Foundation says RSV and shingles can cause serious complications for people living with heart disease, diabetes or COPD.

In Aotearoa, Shingrix is funded at age 65 and given in two doses. RSV vaccines are available in New Zealand but are not government funded.

The foundation says RSV is widespread in Aotearoa, especially in winter. For most people it is manageable, but older adults and people with weakened immune systems can become far more unwell. It says research shows people admitted to hospital with RSV often have acute cardiac events, and the infection may raise the risk of future heart failure.

The foundation says about one in three people will have shingles at some point. It says the chance rises with age, or when the immune system is weakened by conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis.

According to the foundation, some people have only a mild rash, while others face severe pain or eye complications. Others develop postherpetic neuralgia, which is nerve pain that lingers long after the rash fades. It adds that emerging studies suggest shingles might increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

Shingrix is recommended, though not funded, from age 50. It is funded for certain immunocompromised people aged 18 and older who are at increased risk of shingles.

The foundation advises that vaccination, regular check-ups and being mindful about exposure to illness all help reduce the risk of complications. Anyone who feels unwell should contact their healthcare provider early, it says.