Seasonal Flu Resource Center Blog

Pregnant Women Urged to Get a Flu Shot

Posted September 21, 2010. | Filed under CDC Alerts, Flu Shots, Flu Tips, Pediatric, Risk/Priority Groups

This flu season, many medical experts warn of flu “complacency”; health authorities are urging all to stay vigilant in receiving their flu shots.

In the wake of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, many perceive this flu season as less threatening than last year’s, however, this is simply not the case. This year, more than ever, it is important to get your flu shot for many reasons. We once again have returned to the convenience of  a one-dose flu vaccine for everyone over the age of nine*, which will protect against a return of the H1N1 flu strain as well as two other flu types.

One population in particular that is considered high risk and is encouraged to get their flu shot is pregnant women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Flu is more likely to cause severe illness in pregnant women than in women who are not pregnant. Changes in the immune system, heart, and lungs during pregnancy make pregnant women more prone to severe illness from flu as well as hospitalizations and even death. Pregnant woman with flu also have a greater chance for serious problems for their unborn baby, including premature labor and delivery.”

The CDC, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Medical Association, and eight other medical groups all have expressed the importance of vaccination to pregnant women[i]. While many women are reluctant to take medications during their pregnancies, there are some important things to keep in mind if you are expecting this flu season[ii]:

1. The flu shot is safe during all trimesters of pregnancy.
2. Pregnant women should avoid the nasal spray vaccine.
3. New moms that are breastfeeding can choose either the shot or nasal spray forms of the vaccine.
4. The flu shot given during pregnancy has been shown to protect both the mother and her baby (up to 6 months old) from flu.
5. Early treatment is important for pregnant women- If you get sick with flu-like symptoms call your doctor right away.

If you are expecting, getting your flu shot will protect your health as well as the health of your unborn baby and will even protect the baby after birth too.

Stay healthy this flu season and remind your loved ones to get vaccinated.

*Download a chart to learn dosage recommendations for children age 6 months through 8 years

[ii] http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/pregnant.htm

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