Flu vaccination in pregnancy

Pregnancy changes the body's immune and breathing systems, so flu can be harder to manage. Vaccination helps the immune system recognise influenza before infection. It does not treat an illness already present, and it does not prevent every cough, cold, or other respiratory infection.

The recommended vaccine type and timing depend on local guidance and personal circumstances. Temporary arm soreness, tiredness, or a mild temperature may occur after vaccination. Tell the maternity or primary-care team about previous vaccine reactions and severe allergies.

Discuss vaccination with your obstetric, maternity, or primary-care team and share your stage of pregnancy, medical conditions, allergies, and medicines. Ask which product is offered locally and what to do if you are unwell on the appointment day. After vaccination, rest if needed, drink fluids, and use any medicine only after checking that it is suitable in pregnancy.

If flu symptoms develop, contact your maternity or medical team promptly, particularly if you have breathing symptoms or feel significantly worse. Early assessment can guide testing and treatment.

Get emergency care for trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, facial or throat swelling, or a severe allergic reaction after vaccination. Contact your maternity team urgently for persistent vomiting, inability to drink, marked weakness, reduced fetal movement after the point you normally feel it, or flu symptoms that are worsening.

Which flu vaccine is recommended during my pregnancy? When should I receive it? Do my allergies or medicines affect the choice? What should I take for discomfort or fever? Which symptoms should prompt an urgent maternity call?