Influenza Vaccine

Influenza is a viral virus that affects your respiratory system, specifically your nose, throat, and lungs. The flu is a common term for influenza, although it is not the same as stomach "flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. If you get the flu while pregnant, your baby may be born prematurely or with low birth weight, and it may even result in stillbirth or death within the first week of life. The flu vaccine is safe to receive at any stage of pregnancy, from the first few weeks to the projected delivery date.

Getting the flu while pregnant raises your chances of preterm labor and birth (labor and birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy). Premature newborns may have more health issues and may need to stay in the hospital longer than full-term babies. It is safe to obtain the flu shot before and throughout pregnancy.