Swine Flu (H1N1) and Pregnancy
05. Nov, 2009 
2 Comments
Pregnant women seem to be at higher risk for developing complications and being hospitalized if they contract the H1N1 virus. The medical population is not quite sure as to why this happens. Higher levels of complications tend occur during the third trimester when heart and lung function are most strongly affected by the growing baby. According to WebMD, there are also changes in a women’s immune system that can make her more susceptible to infections, including the flu and H1N1.
The CDC (Center for Disease Control) strongly recommends that pregnant women get vaccinated for both the seasonal flu and 2009 H1N1. In fact, just last week, they released a letter to the medical community signed by leaders from the American Medical Association, American Academy of Family Physicians urging health care providers to encourage their patients to get vaccinated.
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If you, or someone you know is pregnant, be sure to consult with a doctor to get all of the facts and to know the risks involved. Symptoms of both the H1N1 and Season Flu are quite similar. You may experience many, but not necessarily all of the following:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Chills and fatigue
- Sometimes, diarrhea and vomiting
WebMD recommends that it is important for a pregnant women to seek intervention at the earliest stages. A healthy and happy mother and baby are the most important outcome. So, talk to your doctor to make sure you have all of the information to make a decision about protecting yourself or someone you love.
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yowza, that’s scary! I’m following from the MBC.
Hi Angela. Thanks so much for stopping by. We certainly don’t want to cause panic, but want to help keep the public informed. I have 3 close friends/family members who are pregnant this flu season.