Is it safe to get a flu shot during pregnancy?

When they are pregnant, women are more likely to contract different viruses like the flu or colds and coughs because of a weakened immune system. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all persons over 6 months of age be vaccinated against influenza, the safety and effectiveness of the influenza vaccine during pregnancy remains confused, in which way the vaccine can it touch a baby to come, and more.

Tera Howard, MD of the Women's Reproductive Health Care Division of the University of Alabama in Birmingham and the UAB Medicine Clinic in Leeds, answers questions and concerns women about influenza vaccine during peak influenza

Q: Is the influenza vaccine safe for pregnant women and the baby?

A: The flu vaccine is very safe for both mother and baby. In fact, administering the vaccine to mom during pregnancy provides additional protection to a newborn, who can only be vaccinated at the age of 6 months. A common myth is that the flu vaccine gives you the flu, which is wrong. Another myth is that the flu vaccine, like other vaccines, gives autism to the baby. This is not true either.

Q: Should pregnant women be vaccinated against influenza?

One: absolutely. Pregnant women who contract the flu are more likely to be admitted to the hospital and to the intensive care unit than non-pregnant women who contract the flu. Due to the severity of the virus, I recommend that all pregnant women be vaccinated (unless they have an allergy). An ounce of prevention is worth more than cure.

Q: If I'm pregnant and start having flu-like symptoms, what should I do? Should I visit emergencies?

A: If you start to experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, coughing and / or headache, call your doctor. You will probably be prescribed Tamiflu, a medication that can help reduce your symptoms and shorten the period of illness. We ask that you stay home to minimize the spread of the flu instead of going to the emergency room. We want you to come to the hospital only if: you have difficulty breathing, a history of asthma or immune suppression, or complications during your pregnancy.

Q: What can I do to protect myself and my baby from influenza and other seasonal viruses?

A: It is very important to get vaccinated. Remember, prevention is important. Washing your hands is also very important to protect yourself this season.

Q: Can you get a flu shot at any time during your pregnancy?

One: absolutely. The influenza vaccine is recommended at any time of the influenza season and your pregnancy. However, it is recommended that you get a flu shot at the start of the flu season, and it could be better for you and your baby.

Q: If I have the flu, can I badfeed my baby?

A: If you have the flu, you can badfeed. Please wash your hands with warm water and wear a mask to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to the baby. Do this also when handling a bad pump or pump parts. Make sure to stay hydrated and take Tamiflu as prescribed.

Provided by
University of Alabama in Birmingham