<h1>Respiratory viruses including COVID-19, RSV, and flu increase short-term heart attack and stroke risk</h1> University researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 48 studies examining links between common respiratory viruses and cardiovascular events. The study found that laboratory-confirmed infections including COVID-19, RSV, and influenza increase short-term risk of heart attacks and strokes in adults, though the strength varies by virus. Researchers emphasized implications for older adults who are more vulnerable to serious cardiovascular events following respiratory infections. The findings support vaccination strategies for at-risk populations and highlight community-level transmission risks from children to older adults during cold and flu seasons.