Hey there! As we transition from summer to fall, it’s that time of year again—kids are heading back to school, and flu season is knocking at our doors. This year, we need to be especially vigilant because we’re facing a new strain known as swine flu, which poses significant risks, particularly for pregnant women. Having treated several expectant moms with swine flu, I can say that contracting this virus during pregnancy can lead to serious health issues. Here are some key takeaways from last spring’s swine flu experience in the U.S.:
- About one in three pregnant women infected with swine flu ended up in the hospital due to severe respiratory complications.
- Pregnant women face a greater risk of death from swine flu; the CDC reported that 6% of swine flu fatalities were among pregnant women compared to just 1% in the general population.
- Both seasonal flu and swine flu increase the chances of premature birth.
So, what can we do to stay healthy this flu season? The CDC and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly recommend that all pregnant women receive both the seasonal flu vaccine (which is available now) and the swine flu vaccine (expected to be available in October), regardless of the trimester. The vaccines that are safe during pregnancy are the shots made with inactivated virus. If you’re concerned about thimerosal, don’t worry—thimerosal-free options will be available for both vaccines. Just a heads up, pregnant women should avoid the nasal spray vaccine, as it contains live attenuated virus and hasn’t been proven safe for use during pregnancy.
As a mom of two little ones myself, including a newborn, I understand the tough choice of whether to get vaccinated. Many of my patients express concerns about the swine flu vaccine being “new.” It’s essential to remember that every year’s seasonal flu shot is technically new, targeting different strains but using a similar preparation method. The swine flu vaccine follows the same practices we’ve been using for years, and it has shown to be safe during pregnancy. Ongoing studies are currently evaluating its effectiveness and the right dosing for expectant mothers.
Moreover, the benefits of the flu vaccine extend beyond just the mom. Research has indicated that infants whose mothers were vaccinated during pregnancy have lower rates of respiratory illness and fever in the first six months. This is crucial since babies can’t get their flu shots until they turn six months old. By vaccinating, you’re not only protecting yourself but also giving your baby a head start with their health.
For more insights on pregnancy and health, check out this related post on our blog Modern Family Blog. If you are also exploring fertility options, consider visiting Make a Mom, the top provider of at-home insemination kits. For a deeper dive into pregnancy resources, Healthline offers excellent information on IVF and other fertility topics.
In summary, this flu season, it’s important for pregnant women to get vaccinated against both seasonal and swine flu to protect themselves and their babies. The vaccines are safe, effective, and can lead to better health outcomes for both mother and infant.
Leave a Reply