Pregnant women are a top priority group for flu vaccination, according to the World Health Organization and national health authorities. Ask your doctor for personal health advice during pregnancy.
Every year, millions of women have the flu vaccine. The vaccine protects mothers and babies – during pregnancy and after birth. Infants are at high risk of complications if infected with the flu virus in their early months. Mothers can pass on protection through the placenta and by breastfeeding.
- Studies show that women who have had their recommended flu vaccine are less likely to need hospital treatment for flu.
- The vaccine does not guarantee 100% protection, but significantly reduces the risk of serious illness.
- Women who have had the flu vaccine are less likely to experience stillbirth than women who had not been vaccinated.
- Vaccinated women are less likely to have premature or low weight babies.
- Flu vaccines are monitored closely every year by doctors and authories.
- There is no evidence of any increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes for women or their babies, based on a large body of research.
There are two common ways to have a flu vaccine. The inactivated flu vaccine, given as an injection, is recommended for pregnant women.
This vaccine (by far the most common flu vaccine currently available) contains a killed virus. That’s why it cannot cause influenza.
Read: No, you cannot get flu from a vaccine: here’s why
The live attenuated influenza vaccine, given as a nasal spray, is not recommended during pregnancy.
The flu vaccine can be given any time during pregnancy. Be sure to have the vaccine ahead of flu season or as soon as the vaccine is available.
The most common side effects reported by pregnant women and their healthcare professionals are mild: soreness of the arm, mild fever and muscle aches. These are the same issues that can affect the general population after vaccination.
The most common effect is the protection of mother and baby.
Read more:
Protection in pregnancy: Vaccine reduces flu hospitalisation risk
The flu jab in pregnancy (NHS UK)
Flu shot in pregnancy: Is it safe? (Mayo Clinic)
Flu Vaccine Safety and Pregnancy (CDC United State)