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Flu Information For Pregnant Women

Pregnancy increases your risk of getting very sick from the flu. If you are pregnant, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you take the following three steps to protect yourself and your baby against the flu:

  • Take everyday preventive actions.
  • Take time to get vaccinated.
  • Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them.

Seasonal Flu Vaccine

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during flu season, you should get the seasonal flu vaccine. 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.

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