Statins Linked to Fewer Pneumonia Hospitalizations but More Flu-Like Illness in Primary Care

A U.K. cohort study of unvaccinated adults aged 65 and older found that statin initiators had a lower risk of hospitalization for pneumonia and acute respiratory infections, but not for influenza. However, in primary care settings, statin use was associated with increased risks of influenza-like illness and acute respiratory infection. The researchers suggest statins may reduce progression to severe disease but note residual confounding and differences in healthcare-seeking behavior as possible explanations.