Getting the flu jab not only protects against that illness, it may also reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in certain people, new research suggests.

Canadian scientists reviewed six clinical trials on the heart health of people who had received the flu vaccine. Over 6,700 people with a history of heart disease were included in these trials.

The scientists found that people who had been vaccinated against flu had a 36% reduced risk of suffering a major cardiac event, such as a heart attack, stroke or heart-related death, one year later.

Furthermore, among people who had previously suffered a heart attack, the risk of suffering a major cardiac event fell by 55%.

"Our study provides solid evidence that the flu shot helps prevent heart disease in vulnerable patients - with the best protection in the highest risk patients. These findings are extraordinary given the potential for this vaccine to serve as yearly preventative therapy for patients with heart disease, a leading cause of death among men and women," commented Dr Jacob Udell of the University of Toronto.

He noted that if the flu vaccine can reduce the risk of heart-related events, these jabs ‘could have considerable impact on cardiac health'.

The scientists acknowledged that further research is required to confirm these results. However, if proven, this simple prevention method could have a major impact on people with, or at risk of, heart disease and stroke.

"While preventative care involves lifestyle changes and taking your pills, now, we may also be able to tell patients by getting your flu shot, it might save your life - what a simple and significant way to reduce deaths and the burden on our healthcare system," Dr Udell added.

Details of these findings are published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Ireland's annual seasonal flu vaccination campaign began last month. As part of this, people in ‘at risk' groups are urged to get vaccinated. At risk groups include people over the age of 65, pregnant women, healthcare workers and those with chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and moderate or severe asthma.

People in at risk groups who have a medical card can avail of this vaccine free of charge. For more information, click here

For more information on heart disease, see our Heart Disease Clinic here