Pregnant Women Should be Administered Flu Vaccine

A study has revealed that the flu vaccine is absolutely safe to administer during any trimester. Yet, research has found that only one in four pregnant women is receiving the vaccinations against the flu. Women should know that influenza can cause life-threatening complications, and it is advisable to take the vaccine to protect against such an event.

A survey also showed that women were 20 times more likely to avail flu vaccinations if it was recommended by their health care providers. Among those surveyed, only 42% women said that health care providers advised them to take the shot.

The study underlined the safety of these flu vaccines as it can be taken during any trimester. The vaccine also lowers the risk of babies contracting the flu during their first six months. "Pregnant women with influenza have an increased risk of complications, including hospitalisation, intensive care unit admission, pre-term delivery and, in severe cases, death," University of Sydney PhD candidate Kerrie Wiley and her co-authors wrote.

"Concern about the safety of the vaccine for the baby was negatively associated with vaccination. However, of the 502 women who expressed concern, 339 (68 per cent) agreed they would have the vaccine if their doctor or midwife recommended it."



Source-Medindia