|
The flu can be more serious in pregnant women than non-pregnant
women. Women in their second and third trimester should
get vaccinated against the flu. Not only should you get
the influenza vaccine, but so should your husband (or significant
other) and maybe any other children you have to prevent them
from infecting you and the rest of the family.
The flu is a much more serious condition than the common cold. Most
symptoms of influenza such as fever, head congestion, runny nose,
muscle aches and pains, usually last 7-10 days. But in
some persons, especially those at risk, influenza can cause more
serious problems. The season usually lasts from October
to April, though outbreaks have been observed earlier.
There are several methods to combat influenza. The most
effective means of preventing the flu is vaccination. The
body produces antibodies that protect you from the virus. Antibodies
are most protective for the first four months or so after vaccination. In
some people, the vaccination does not work, and their immune
system doesn’t respond, or they are exposed to the flu
virus after immunity has worn off.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that women
who will be in the second or third trimester of pregnancy during
flu season get the vaccine because some studies suggest that
pregnancy can increase the risks of the flu as a result of changes
in the body during pregnancy.
No adverse side effects have been shown in pregnant women. The
flu vaccine is a “passive” vaccine and no live or
dead virus is injected, and there is no known fetal risk to passive
immunization. Breast feeding women can safely get the vaccine. Yet,
persons with egg allergies should not get the vaccine, as vaccine
making process can include chicken eggs.
|
