Flu vaccinations appear less effective for people taking statins

Two studies find cholesterol-lowering drug impairs immune system's ability to tackle flu virus

Vaccination against flu appears to be less effective in people who take statins, according to two new studies.

The drugs, to lower cholesterol in people at risk of heart disease, are widely prescribed by GPs. Many taking them will be over 65 and offered a flu jab as the winter approaches. But the studies, published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases, suggest that they may not be well protected.