What to know about flu vaccination in pregnancy

Pregnancy changes the way the immune system, heart and lungs respond to infection, so influenza can be harder to cope with. The inactivated flu vaccine does not cause influenza. After vaccination, a sore arm, tiredness or a mild temperature can occur for a short time. Protection develops gradually and can vary with the circulating virus, but vaccination remains useful during flu season.

Antibodies made during pregnancy can cross the placenta and give a newborn some early protection. The vaccine is different from a live nasal spray vaccine, which is generally not used during pregnancy. Tell the clinician about previous vaccine reactions, allergies, fever or a pregnancy complication so they can advise you appropriately.

Ask your maternity team, family doctor or pharmacist which flu vaccine is available and suitable for you. Keep a record of the vaccination date and report any previous severe reaction before receiving another dose. Rest, drink fluids and use only medicines your maternity clinician has approved if you feel unwell afterward. Vaccination does not replace hand hygiene, ventilation and avoiding close contact with people who are ill.

Contact your maternity team promptly if you develop fever, cough, body aches or unusual breathlessness after exposure to influenza, because early assessment may guide treatment. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, inability to keep fluids down, reduced fetal movement or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or wheezing after vaccination.

Ask whether vaccination is recommended at your current stage of pregnancy, whether a nasal spray vaccine should be avoided, what to do if you have a fever afterward, and how influenza symptoms may affect your pregnancy care.