Pregnant Women Should Get Flu Shots

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued an important statement last week, urging women- most especially pregnant women- to get flu shots. According to the ACOG, this month is the best time to get vaccinated against influenza; before flu season is going strong. In the United States, it tends to run all the way from October through mid-May. Even though having a flu shot should be considered a routine part of prenatal care, findings from a recent survey conducted by the National Women's Health Resource Center found that getting a flu shot is "bottom-of-mind" for the majority of women when they consider their own prenatal health. The ACOG says approximately one-fifth of Americans are hit with the flu each year and expectant mothers have even higher illness and death rates from the flu than any other group. With that in mind, what’s holding women back?

Well, one major thing may be the safety factor. A concern about the safety of flu vaccines keeps some women from getting the shot. Some flu vaccines contain a mercury-based vaccine preservative called “thimerosal”. Thimerosal-free flu vaccines are available, but they are usually a bit more expensive, although the ACOG says there is no evidence that thimerosal is a danger to the health of pregnant women or their unborn babies. In the statement, it’s emphasizes that flu shots are both safe and effective for pregnant women and offers some protection to their babies as well.

Keep in mind, pregnant women can only have the flu vaccine via injection. The nasal spray vaccine has not been approved for pregnant women to receive. Breastfeeding women, however can choose between either.