Pregnancy and The Flu Vaccine: It's Not Too Late!

SHOULD YOU GET THE FLU SHOT? (YES.)

Influenza (flu) is more likely to cause more severe complications in pregnant women than in women of similar ages who are not pregnant. Changes in the immune system during pregnancy make pregnant women (and women up to two weeks postpartum) more prone to severe illness from flu. You also have a higher risk of pregnancy complications, such as preterm labor and preterm birth, if you get the flu. The flu also may be harmful for a developing baby. The flu vaccine does “double duty” by protecting you and your developing baby. When you get a flu shot during pregnancy, the protective antibodies made in your body are transferred to your baby and will help protect your baby from the flu until they can get the vaccine at 6 months of age. 

WHEN SHOULD YOU GET VACCINATED? (NOW!)

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Seasonal flu activity often begins as early as October and November and can continue to occur as late as May. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States between December and February.” The best time to get vaccinated is early in the flu season, but if you are not vaccinated early, you still can get the vaccine later in the flu season. You can get the shot at any time during your pregnancy.

WHAT TYPE OF VACCINE SHOULD YOU GET? (THE SHOT, NOT THE MIST)

There are two types of flu vaccines: 1) a shot and 2) a nasal mist. The flu shot contains a form of the flu virus that is inactivated and cannot cause disease. The nasal mist contains alive (although altered so it does not cause disease) influenza virus and is not recommended for pregnant women. However, it is safe for women after they have given birth, including those who are breastfeeding.

WHAT IF YOU GET THE FLU WHILE YOU’RE PREGNANT? (CALL YOUR DOCTOR!)

If you think you have the flu and you are pregnant (or you have had a baby within the past 2 weeks), contact your obstetrician or other health care professional right away. Symptoms may include fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat or a stuffy nose. Taking an antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu, as soon as possible is recommended.

Antiviral medication is available by prescription. It is most effective when taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms, but there still is some benefit to taking it up to 4–5 days after symptoms start. An antiviral drug does not cure the flu, but it can shorten how long it lasts and how severe it is. Even if you just think you have the flu, it is best to be on the safe side and contact your doctor.

You also should call your obstetrician or other health care professional if you are pregnant and come in close contact with someone who has the flu. This includes living with, caring for, or talking face-to-face with someone who may have the flu. You may be prescribed an antiviral drug to reduce the risk that you will get the flu.

As always, feel free to contact our office directly if you have any questions or concerns.