Influenza (Flu) and Pregnancy
A pregnant woman who gets flu has a greater chance of serious illness for her unborn baby and herself. Some pregnant women have died from flu.
Protect Yourself and Protect your Baby
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Get your free flu shot. This is the best way to protect you from flu and the protection is passed on from you to your baby. * |
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Take simple precautions - wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes. Encourage others to as well. |
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Ask sick people to keep away until they are well. |
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If you start to feel sick, call your doctor straight away. Early treatment of flu can help prevent complications. |
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Treat fever straight away. Fever can harm your unborn baby. |
* The protective antibodies produced by a flu vaccine also pass to your baby which helps to protect them from influenza for up to 6 months after they’re born.
Flu Signs and Symptoms
Make sure you know the common signs and symptoms of flu:
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Further Information
NSW Health Influenza resources:
- Influenza Factsheet
- Influenza and Pregnancy videos – advice from the Chief Health Officer and other experts.
- Seasonal Influenza vaccination 2012
- Information for Antenatal Care providers
- Cough etiquette and Hand washing guides
Other resources:
- MotherSafe (Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick) – http://www.mothersafe.org.au. See the factsheets on influenza and influenza vaccination in pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance - Influenza vaccines for Australians factsheet (May 2011).
- The Australian Immunisation Handbook (9th Edition). Available at http://immunise.health.gov.au.