Many pregnant women underestimate the danger of seasonal influenza. This common mistake can lead to serious health problems for both mother and child.
Why Flu Hits Pregnant Women Harder
Dr Pratibha Narayan, a senior consultant obstetrician at 9M Hospitals by Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, explains the unique risks. "A woman's body responds differently to infections during pregnancy," she states. "If a pregnant woman catches the flu, she faces higher complication risks, especially in later trimesters."
Treating influenza like a simple cold represents a widespread misunderstanding. Doctors emphasize that flu presents a significant threat during pregnancy.
How Pregnancy Changes Infection Risk
The developing fetus causes major bodily changes. A pregnant woman's heart and lungs work harder to support both lives. Immune system adjustments protect the baby but can increase maternal vulnerability to certain infections.
This combination raises the likelihood of flu-related complications. Severe issues may include:
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Respiratory distress
These conditions sometimes require hospitalization or intensive care. Women with pre-existing conditions face even greater risks.
"Pregnant women with asthma, diabetes, anaemia, or hypertension need particular caution," Dr Pratibha adds. "These conditions increase their risk of severe infection."
Double Protection Through Vaccination
Timely influenza vaccination offers one of the simplest preventive steps. The benefits extend beyond the mother to her newborn.
Babies cannot receive flu vaccines until six months old. This leaves newborns vulnerable during their early months. Maternal vaccination solves this problem effectively.
When a pregnant woman gets vaccinated, she passes protective antibodies to her baby through the placenta. This natural defense shields the newborn against flu during life's initial months.
The transferred antibodies help prevent severe illness and reduce hospitalization needs for infants.
Addressing Vaccine Safety Concerns
Strong evidence supports influenza vaccine safety during pregnancy. Yet misconceptions persist among some expectant mothers.
One common fear involves the vaccine causing flu. Dr Pratibha clarifies this misunderstanding. "Flu vaccine does not contain any living viruses," she assures. "It cannot cause flu."
Leading health organizations provide extensive global data confirming vaccine safety. Research shows vaccination associates with healthier outcomes for both mothers and babies.
The vaccine remains safe during any pregnancy trimester. Doctors emphasize its importance given flu's potential consequences.
"Flu during pregnancy can lead to health complications and increase premature birth and stillbirth risks," Dr Pratibha advises. "This makes vaccination essential, especially in later trimesters."
Optimal Timing for Flu Vaccination
Doctors recommend specific timing for maximum protection. Dr Pratibha explains the flexibility. "The flu vaccine can be safely taken at any time during pregnancy," she says.
Early vaccination provides longer protection throughout pregnancy. Later vaccination still helps prevent delivery complications and protects newborns.
Pregnant women should follow routine appointments and follow their gynecologist's vaccination advice.
Specific Recommendations and Annual Needs
The Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India recommends the inactivated influenza vaccine for pregnant women. Ideal administration occurs between October and January.
While the vaccine works at any pregnancy point, common practice suggests giving it from 26 weeks onward. Higher flu risk situations warrant earlier vaccination.
Annual revaccination remains necessary even with previous year's shots. Dr Pratibha explains this requirement. "The viruses causing flu change every year," she notes. "This makes repeated vaccination essential."
As seasonal patterns evolve and viral strains change, influenza vaccination stays reliable. This preventive tool offers significant protection with minimal risk.
Dr Pratibha concludes with a powerful message. "Two lives can be significantly protected with a single, timely vaccine," she states. "The flu vaccine gives babies a stronger start while reassuring mothers about their health during this special period."
