{"id":16171,"date":"2020-10-22T09:00:21","date_gmt":"2020-10-22T13:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=16171"},"modified":"2024-05-22T14:40:04","modified_gmt":"2024-05-22T18:40:04","slug":"flu-while-pregnant","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/flu-while-pregnant\/","title":{"rendered":"What to do if you get the flu while pregnant"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you\u2019re expecting, a healthy baby is your top priority\u2014and that means taking care of your own health, especially during cold and flu season. Pregnancy naturally suppresses your immune system, which can mean you more easily catch common illnesses. Even though the flu is fairly common, it can be more dangerous while carrying a child. Luckily, there are ways to protect yourself. And, if you think you\u2019ve been exposed, your healthcare provider can guide you through it. Here\u2019s how.<\/span><\/p>\n

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How to prevent the flu during pregnancy<\/span><\/h2>\n

The first, and best, way to avoid catching the flu while pregnant is simple: Get an influenza vaccine. It\u2019s completely <\/span>safe for expectant mothers<\/span><\/a>\u2014just be sure to request the seasonal flu shot, not the nasal spray immunization. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that all pregnant women be immunized (and share a <\/span>list of studies<\/span><\/a> that show it\u2019s safety and efficacy if you\u2019re worried).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

An added bonus? Your baby will be born with protection during those vulnerable early months. \u201cMaternal flu antibodies that are produced after getting the flu vaccine cross the placenta to provide protection to babies,\u201d explains Jessica Madden, MD, a board-certified pediatrician and the medical director of <\/span>Aeroflow Breastpumps<\/span><\/a>. \u201cThus, maternal flu vaccine is the best way to protect a newborn baby from getting the flu.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Then, be sure to practice the three simple hygiene rules that have become routine thanks to COVID-19:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. Practice proper <\/span>handwashing<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n
  2. Avoid touching your face<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Minimize close contact with sick people<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Remember, it takes a couple days for infected people to start showing symptoms, so be careful. If you\u2019re pregnant and someone in your household has the flu, take extra steps to protect yourself. The first several days after being infected are the worst for contagion (spreading it to others), according to the CDC. Keep your distance from the sick person, wear a mask when you need to be in the same room, wipe down surfaces, and avoid using shared items. When in doubt, wash your hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

    What happens if I get the flu while pregnant?<\/span><\/h2>\n

    If you think you may have caught the flu while pregnant, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of the flu in pregnant mothers is related to better outcomes, according to the CDC.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Your body is already working hard to grow and nurture a human being. An infection like influenza adds additional stress to your system\u2014putting you at a higher risk for serious flu complications such as \u201cfevers at the very least and other secondary infections,\u201d explains Snehal Doshi, MD, the CEO of <\/span>Millennium Neonatology<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

    According to the <\/span>American Pregnancy Association<\/span><\/a>, symptoms of the flu during pregnancy include:<\/span><\/p>\n