Vaccines are designed to prevent infectious diseases. That remains their primary and most important purpose.
However, growing research suggests that preventing infection may also reduce some of the wider health complications that infections can trigger, particularly in older adults and those with underlying conditions.
Shingles vaccination and brain health
The shingles vaccine (Shingrix) protects against herpes zoster and its painful complication, post-herpetic neuralgia.
Large population based studies have reported an association between shingles vaccination and lower rates of dementia diagnosis. Researchers believe this may relate to reduced inflammation and vascular stress caused by shingles infection.
While causation is not yet proven, the findings are considered encouraging and are being actively studied.
Influenza vaccination and cardiovascular protection
Seasonal influenza vaccination has long been recommended for older adults and people with cardiovascular disease.
Randomised controlled trials have demonstrated that influenza vaccination reduces major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with established heart disease. Infection can trigger inflammation and clotting, which may precipitate heart attacks or strokes. Preventing influenza may therefore reduce this secondary risk in vulnerable individuals.
RSV vaccination in older adults
New vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), such as Abrysvo, have significantly reduced RSV-related lower respiratory infections in older adults.
Emerging observational data suggest that preventing RSV infection may also reduce broader cardiorespiratory hospitalisations in older adults, likely reflecting prevention of infection-triggered complications.
HPV vaccination and cancer prevention
HPV vaccination (Gardasil 9) is one of the clearest examples of vaccination protecting long-term health.
UK data have shown substantial reductions in cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes in women vaccinated in early adolescence. This represents a major public health success.
Pneumococcal vaccination and wider protection
Pneumococcal vaccines such as Prevenar 20 reduce invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumonia.
There is increasing evidence that preventing severe infection may also reduce hospital admissions and potentially reduce cardiovascular complications linked to infection.
Why preventing infection matters
Infections act as physiological stressors. They increase inflammation, can affect clotting mechanisms, and may destabilise existing medical conditions.
By preventing infection, vaccination may also help reduce these downstream consequences.
The primary purpose of vaccination remains infection prevention. But the growing body of evidence reinforces a broader message: protecting yourself against infection may also help protect long-term health.
If you would like personalised advice about which vaccines are appropriate for you, our GPs can review your medical history and provide tailored guidance.
Learn more or book a consultation at www.fleetstreetclinic.com
Sources
– Nature Medicine, 2023
– Circulation, 2021
– New England Journal of Medicine, 2023
– UK Government & Public Health England
– Heart (BMJ)
