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The flu (influenza) is a contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs (respiratory infection). If you have heart disease, it's important to take steps to protect yourself against the flu. Complications from the flu are more likely in people with heart disease.

You can reduce your risk of the flu and its complications by getting an annual flu vaccine. Although the flu vaccine isn't 100% effective, it's still your best defense against the flu. Doctors have long recommended the vaccine for older adults and other high-risk groups — which includes those with heart disease.