The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has released new Concise Clinical Guidance (CCG) recommending vaccines to protect adults with heart disease against respiratory illnesses—including influenza, COVID-19, and RSV—as well as other diseases where vaccination offers cardiovascular benefits.
The guidance compiles evidence-based recommendations and provides answers to frequently asked questions, enabling clinicians to better discuss vaccination as part of cardiovascular care.
“Vaccination against respiratory and other serious diseases is vital for people with heart disease, but gaps remain in awareness and access,” said Paul Heidenreich, MD, FACC, chair of the writing committee. “This guidance supports clinicians in making vaccination a routine part of prevention and treatment.”
Patients with heart disease face increased risks from respiratory viruses, including higher rates of hospitalization and death. Vaccines have proven effective in reducing these risks, yet studies show only 30% of primary care physicians assess vaccination status during visits.
The CCG consolidates existing ACC/AHA and CDC recommendations, with highlights including:
Influenza – Annual flu vaccination is recommended for all adults; nasal spray not advised for those over 50.
Pneumococcal – One-time vaccination (PCV20/PCV21 or PCV15 + PPSV23) for adults 19+ with heart disease.
COVID-19 – Seasonal vaccination recommended for adults with heart disease; benefits include reduced infection, severe illness, and cardiovascular complications.
RSV – Single-dose vaccination advised for adults 75+ and those aged 50–74 with heart disease.
Shingles – Two-dose vaccination for adults 50+ to lower the risk of stroke or heart attack linked to infection.
The document also outlines strategies to overcome hesitancy, improve vaccination rates, and integrate immunization into cardiology care.
The expert consensus statement, “2025 Concise Clinical Guidance: An ACC Expert Consensus on Adult Immunizations as Part of Cardiovascular Care,” will be published in JACC on August 26, 2025.