A recent Ars Technica report reveals that the latest COVID-19 vaccines still offer meaningful protection against heart problems, especially among older adults and those with chronic conditions. The study tracked over a million VA patients, analyzing data from 2024–2025. Researchers found the vaccines reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events linked to COVID, such as heart attacks and strokes, by about 38 percent.

While the absolute benefit is modest—dropping MACE rates from roughly 5 to 3 per 10,000—its impact is strongest in high-risk groups. This finding reinforces the long-term value of updated shots, countering ongoing vaccine hesitancy. The data highlights that immunity persists even as the virus evolves, emphasizing the importance of continued vaccination efforts.