Get the Facts, not the Flu!

It’s flu shot season! Time to get in line at your local drug store or primary care physician’s office and make sure you’re protected against this season’s strain of influenza. There are many opinions across the board about whether or not you ‘need’ to get your flu shot, but for the women who are trying to conceive or are pregnant, the risks are much greater by going without your vaccine.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends that all women receive the influenza vaccination. Pregnant woman have increased risk of serious illness, hospitalization, prenatal and neonatal complications and even death if they get influenza.

Getting the flu vaccine while pregnant also provides greater protection for your newborn, as the vaccine is not approved for babies under 6 months old. Getting the vaccine while pregnant helps create a stronger immune system for your newborn, helping to protect them from contracting influenza. In a study performed in South Africa in 2018, babies whose mothers had the flu vaccine while pregnant also show fewer respiratory tract illnesses, less influenza diagnoses, and fewer hospitalizations.

Educate yourself about the right steps to take during flu season if you’re trying to conceive or if you’re pregnant. Make sure to talk over any questions or concerns you have about the vaccination with your doctor to ensure you’re taking the necessary steps to protect your self and your baby.