Is the flu vaccine safe for pregnant women like those Dr. Pratibha Narayan advises?

Yes, the flu vaccine is proven safe for all trimesters of pregnancy and does not contain live viruses.

How does the flu vaccine protect newborns?

Maternal vaccination passes protective antibodies to the baby, shielding them in their first vulnerable months.

When should pregnant women get the flu vaccine?

It can be taken anytime during pregnancy, with earlier vaccination providing longer protection.

Home / Health / Flu Shot: Double Protection for Mom & Baby

Flu Shot: Double Protection for Mom & Baby

20 Jan

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Summary

Pregnancy heightens flu complication risks.
Vaccine shields both mother and newborn from flu.
Flu vaccine is safe for all pregnancy trimesters.

Seasonal influenza poses a significant, often underestimated, health risk for expectant mothers. During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes changes that increase susceptibility to infections and their complications, especially in later trimesters.

These complications can range from bronchitis and pneumonia to respiratory distress requiring hospitalization or intensive care. Pregnant women with pre-existing conditions like asthma or diabetes face even higher risks.

The influenza vaccine provides dual protection, not only for the mother but also for the newborn. Since infants under six months cannot be vaccinated, antibodies passed from mother to baby via the placenta offer vital early defense.

Concerns about vaccine safety during pregnancy are unfounded. The flu vaccine contains no live viruses and is proven safe for all trimesters, leading to better maternal and neonatal outcomes.