What should you know about inactivated influenza vaccine in pregnancy?

Pregnancy can change how the body responds to respiratory infections, so your clinician may consider influenza prevention as part of antenatal care. An inactivated vaccine cannot multiply in the body. Your decision should account for the stage of pregnancy, your health, local seasonal advice, and any history of serious vaccine allergy. The injection does not cause influenza.

Tell your obstetric clinician or vaccinator that you are pregnant, your expected delivery timing, any previous vaccine reaction, and whether you have fever or feel acutely unwell. Bring your antenatal and immunisation information if available. After the injection, drink fluids and monitor the arm for soreness. Arrange the next recommended dose or review rather than changing the schedule yourself.

Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, throat or facial swelling, widespread hives, collapse, or a rapidly worsening reaction after vaccination. Contact your maternity team for a persistent fever, severe illness, reduced wellbeing, or symptoms that worry you. Injection-site tenderness and temporary fatigue can be monitored, but pregnancy-related concerns deserve individual advice.

Ask whether vaccination is appropriate at your current stage of pregnancy, how it fits your antenatal plan, what to do if you are unwell on the day, and which symptoms should prompt a maternity call.