Concerned about getting the flu during pregnancy?
Most of us know about influenza, or the flu, by now. A viral infection, symptoms of the flu include high fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and sore throat. Case numbers usually peak between December and March.
When you’re pregnant, your body changes in more ways than you may realize. Your heart rate increases and lung capacity decreases, putting more stress on these vital organs. Being pregnant also affects your immune system.
This is why pregnant women are more likely than the average person to experience serious flu illness and are at higher risk for hospitalization due to flu symptoms.
Some of these complications may even be life-threatening. Additionally, flu infections can also increase the risk of preterm labor and preterm birth.
If you are pregnant and have the flu, reach out to your OB-GYN. They may recommend additional precautions depending on your condition.
How can I treat the flu during pregnancy?
Pregnant women who get the flu should:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Try eating small meals to maintain their nutritional intake.
- If you have a fever, lower your temperature with acetaminophen, especially in the first trimester. Fevers can be linked to neural tube defects in early pregnancy.
- Keep your distance from others while you are sick because you may be contagious for up to one week.
You should contact your OB-GYN or health care provider to see if you are a candidate for antivirals if you are sick with the flu or have recently been exposed to the flu. Your health care provider can discuss the risks and benefits of taking or not taking this medication.
How can I avoid getting and spreading the flu?
Everyone can help prevent the spread of the flu by:
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Covering your coughs and sneezes.
- Making sure to regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Making sure to not touch your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with viruses that cause the flu.
- And last but certainly not least, getting the flu vaccine.
Is getting the flu shot during pregnancy safe?
The flu vaccine is offered to everyone 6 months of age and older annually, since it is updated each year. It is preferable that everyone get their flu vaccine by the end of October.
Since babies cannot get a flu vaccine until they are at least 6 months old, getting a flu vaccination during pregnancy protects you and your baby.
What are some concerns with getting the flu vaccine?
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), during pregnancy, you should request the injectable vaccine, not the nasal spray.
- You cannot get the flu from the vaccine, but you can still get the flu after getting the vaccine. It takes two weeks to become fully protected. Even after two weeks, you can still get the flu, but your flu symptoms should be milder and you will be at a lower risk for serious complications from a flu infection.
- Side effects of the flu vaccine can include redness or swelling causing a sore arm, muscle aches, fever or headaches. If you experience a serious reaction, contact your medical provider immediately.
- Although thimerosal (preservative) has not been linked to significant health risks, there is an option of a preservative-free vaccine.
- An egg allergy is no longer a contraindication to the flu vaccine.
What should everyone consider during the flu season?
Pregnant people and young children are among the individuals more at risk of having serious complications from a flu infection.
With these tips, you should now be ready to tackle the flu during pregnancy.
It is time to get your flu vaccine for this flu season! And if you are pregnant, talk to your OB-GYN if you have any questions or concerns about the flu or the flu vaccine.
Learn more about the maternity care services and primary care services we provide at Bon Secours.
