How Can a Flu Shot During Pregnancy Help Keep Mom & Baby Safe?

For mothers who are pregnant during flu season, there are often many questions in regard to the best way to protect their baby and continue to have a healthy pregnancy free of complications. While every season of pregnancy comes with its own concerns, being pregnant during flu season can be especially alarming.

In this scenario, one of the best things a mother can do for herself and her child is get her annual flu shot. While many mothers have questions about the safety of the flu shot during pregnancy, it is actually highly recommended and can help keep both mom and baby safe.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Worcester offers some perspective.

Is It Safe to Get a Flu Shot During Pregnancy?

Absolutely! In fact, it is highly recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC as well as the Food and Drug Administration closely monitor the safety of the flu vaccine for pregnant women, and it has not been known to cause any complications or additional side effects. Pregnant women do not typically need any special considerations or permission from their doctor to receive the flu shot at any clinic.

What Are the Benefits of Getting a Flu Shot During Pregnancy?

1. Reducing the risk of flu complications for the mother. It is more likely that the flu will cause complications for women who are pregnant than women who are not. By reducing your chances of becoming infected with the flu by getting a flu shot, you are also reducing the chances of becoming hospitalized due to the flu during pregnancy.

2. Reducing the risk of flu complications for the child. One of the common symptoms of the flu is a fever above 100 F. If pregnant women have a high fever early in pregnancy, due to the flu or any other illness, it can increase the chances of fetal complications and birth defects for the child.

3. Helping protect the child after birth. Children under 6 months are not eligible to be vaccinated for the flu. However, when a pregnant or nursing mother receives her flu shot, her body is able to pass on the developed antibodies to the child in safe levels to help boost their immunity against the virus.

If you are ready to get a flu shot to protect yourself and your child, come see us today at AFC Urgent Care Worcester!