16 Dec Influenza: Tips and Tricks for Moms-to-Be
For expecting mothers, the onset of the flu season can be especially daunting. Pregnancy can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off these viruses. So, you’ll want to take extra precautions throughout your pregnancy and postpartum period. And of course, take extra precautions to protect your little one when she arrives too!
Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It causes mild to severe symptoms and has the potential to lead to serious health complications, especially for the immune compromised, like pregnant women and young babies. Severe complications can include pneumonia or even premature labor and delivery.
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. The vaccine helps protect you and your baby by stimulating your body to produce antibodies that protect against common flu strains.
Here are the highlights to protect you and your baby:
- Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine is safe and highly recommended for pregnant women. It protects you and your unborn baby.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching your face, and cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve or tissue when sneezing or coughing.
- Stay away from sick individuals: Avoid close contact with people who have the flu or flu-like symptoms to reduce your risk of getting infected.
- Take care of your overall health: Get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet, and stay physically active to strengthen your immune system.
By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the chances of contracting the flu and keep both you and your unborn baby healthy throughout your pregnancy.
REFERENCES:
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC). August 2023. Flu vaccine safety and pregnancy. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/qa_vacpregnant.htm#:~:text=Getting%20an%20influenza%20(flu)%20vaccine,and%20the%20baby%20from%20flu.
- March of Dimes. September 2023. Influenza and pregnancy. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/influenza-flu-and-pregnancy
- Photo by Gundula Vogel: Home Remedies and Medications for Cold and Flu Relief. https://www.pexels.com/photo/home-remedies-and-medications-for-cold-and-flu-relief-28927703/