Shingles vaccine lowers heart attack, stroke risk

A new study reveals that the shingles vaccine can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, by up to 23 percent. The research, analyzing data from over 1.2 million people in South Korea, found the protective effect lasted up to eight years, with the greatest risk reduction occurring two to three years after vaccination. The effect was more pronounced in men and those with unhealthy behaviors. This study, published in the European Heart Journal, adds to the growing evidence of the shingles vaccine's benefits, which is already recommended for adults over 50 to prevent the painful skin rash and blisters of the disease.