The flu season has arrived! Due to changes in the immune system, lungs, and circulatory system, influenza is more likely to cause sickness in pregnant women than in non-pregnant women.
Type A and B influenza viruses can cause seasonal influenza. Cough, headache, sore throat, fever, and muscle soreness are all possible symptoms. Coughing might be severe and continue up to two weeks. It is critical to avoid contracting the flu when pregnant. It puts you and your baby at danger by increasing the chances of miscarriage, early birth, and low birth weight.
With the Covid 19 pandemic, people often confuse flu symptoms with Covid 19 symptoms; however, specific symptoms such as a loss of smell or taste can be attributed to Covid 19. Pregnant women should take precautions in all situations and try to keep themselves safe. As a result, regardless of their pregnancy stage, it is recommended that all pregnant women get the flu shot.
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions by pregnant women.
Is the flu vaccine safe?
The first and most important step in protecting against flu is to get a flu vaccine. Pregnant women should get a flu shot to protect both themselves and their unborn babies. Flu shots have been given to millions of people with an excellent safety record over many years.
When is the best time to get the flu vaccine?
The fall season is the best time to get a flu vaccine. If you miss the shot, you can always get it later during the winter season, but doctors recommend getting it as soon as possible to avoid illness.
What are the flu vaccine side effects?
Because the vaccine contains no live viruses, it cannot cause the flu. Some people may experience a slight fever, aching muscles, and soreness at the injection site for a few days.
Is Covid-19 vaccine safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
There is some evidence to support the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, but more research is needed. The CDC, on the other hand, believes that the benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh the risks of sickness during pregnancy.
Furthermore, COVID-19 vaccines are not harmful to the mother, the baby, or breastfeeding women.
Breastfeeding women who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines developed antibodies in their breastmilk, which may help protect their babies as well, according to recent reports. More research is needed to determine the level of protection provided by these antibodies to the baby.
The most important thing is to stay safe, and avoid being around sick people. If you begin to feel ill with any of the flu or Covid-19 symptoms, or suspect you may have get any of them, contact your doctor right away. He or she will recommend the best course of action for you and your child.
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