Flu vaccination during pregnancy

Is it safe to get the flu vaccination during pregnancy?

Flu vaccination is recommended for all pregnant women. It is among the non-viable vaccines that are safe during pregnancy. They contain inactivated viruses or their fragments, such as proteins. Given the risks of contracting influenza during pregnancy, the mother-to-be should be informed by her gynecologist about this possibility and make a decision about it. vaccinations. Flu vaccination is not a mandatory vaccination. Because the virus mutates, vaccination should be repeated annually.

When to get the flu vaccination during pregnancy?

Flu vaccination is safe in every trimester of pregnancy and during the preconception period. It is especially recommended to perform it in the 2nd. or 3rd trimester. Much also depends on the infectious season. The general rule is to get vaccinated for the flu before the peak of illnesses, which is from October to December. The peak of flu cases is between January and March, according to the National Sanitary Inspectorate.

Flu vaccination during pregnancy is free. In order to receive the free vaccine, you need to go to the pharmacy with a certificate of pregnancy, pick up the vaccine and attend the vaccination at the pharmacy, POZ or clinic where the pregnancy is carried out.

Why is it a good idea to get a flu vaccination during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the body’s immunity decreases. Thus, the mother-to-be may experience the flu more severely than before pregnancy. It is also exposed to a higher risk of post-influenza complications. Children of women who have had the flu during pregnancy are more likely to have lower birth weights or be born prematurely. Influenza is particularly dangerous for those patients who are struggling with cardiac problems. In addition, thanks to the vaccination, the child receives antibodies from the mother and is protected from getting sick in the first months of life.

Recommended vaccinations during pregnancy

Currently, 3 vaccinations are recommended for pregnant women: combined vaccination for pertussis, tetanus and diphtheria, as well as against influenza and COVID-19. These vaccines are considered safe during pregnancy. They belong to the killed vaccines. This is because live vaccines such as measles mumps and rubella cannot be vaccinated during pregnancy. In their case, it is necessary to wait 4 weeks before planning pregnancy.

Read more: When should vaccinations be done during pregnancy? What can you be vaccinated against?