Pregnancy Flu Risks
Pregnancy puts extra stress on a woman's body, which makes pregnant women more likely to develop flu complications. In fact, pregnant women are 4 times more likely then non-pregnant women to be hospitalized for flu complications, and they are just as likely to have flu complications as those people who have chronic medical conditions. Even women who are in the early stages of pregnancy are at a high risk. If you are pregnant during flu season (early winter to early spring), there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of complications.
First, take steps to prevent getting the flu. Having a flu shot during pregnancy can help protect you and your baby once it is born by reducing the risk that you will get the flu and pass it on to the baby. If you have flu symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible, and follow all instructions for flu treatment.