• Consumer Health: Why you need a flu shot if you have heart disease

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Flu shots and heart disease
If you have heart disease, flu season can be a dangerous time. Complications from the flu, including pneumonia, respiratory failure, heart attack and death, are more likely in people with heart disease. The flu also can worsen preexisting conditions, such as heart failure, diabetes or asthma. Fortunately, getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of catching the flu or developing complications from it. Learn more about why it's especially important to get a flu shot if you have heart disease.

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