Flu Information For Pregnant Women

H1N1 Vaccine

Pregnant women and post-partum women up to six months post-partum may now call their health providers to schedule appointments to receive the H1N1 vaccine. Pregnant and post-partum women should receive the H1N1 vaccine from the states where their providers' practices are located.

Pregnant women are at high-risk for complications from the flu and should be vaccinated to protect both themselves and their babies. Pregnant women can receive either the preservative containing or the preservative-free H1N1 vaccine. There is no scientific evidence to support a risk from using preservative containing vaccine and the benefit of receiving the vaccine outweighs the theoretical risk. The H1N1 vaccine is just as safe as the seasonal flu vaccine. It is made exactly the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine, which pregnant women have safely received for years.

Seasonal Flu Vaccine

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during flu season, you should get the seasonal flu vaccine. Pregnancy increases your risk of getting very sick from the flu. The flu shot will protect you from flu-related complications and will help protect your newborn against the flu.

There are two types of flu vaccine. Pregnant women can only receive the flu shot, an inactivated vaccine that is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The other type of flu vaccine, the nasal-spray vaccine, is not approved for pregnant women. Getting the flu shot is safe for you and your baby while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pregnant women have been safely receiving the flu shot for years, and it is recommended for all pregnant women in any trimester.

Protect yourself and your baby. Talk to your doctor about getting your seasonal flu shot today.