Flu vaccines help heart health; respiratory illness on the rise; CMS extends application period for new payment model – Morning Medical Update

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Flu vaccines cut risk of heart deaths

A meta-analysis of five studies about flu vaccines found patients who got the shot had a significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular death. The findings “underscore the potential impact of influenza vaccination in safeguarding against adverse cardiovascular outcomes among vulnerable patient populations,” the researchers wrote.

Flu season trio on the rise

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported “the amount of respiratory illness (fever plus cough or sore throat) causing people to seek health care is increasing across most areas of the country.” That includes cases of COVID-19, flu and elevated respiratory syncytial virus cases among young children.

Making Care Primary deadline extended

The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has extended the signup period for Making Care Primary, a new payment model that will start in July 2024. It will begin in eight states: Colorado, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Minnesota, Massachusetts and Washington.