Influenza (Flu) and Pregnancy

Influenza (the flu) is an infection of the respiratory tract. The tract is made up of your mouth, nose, and lungs, and the passages between them. The flu can make a pregnant woman very ill. This is because changes that occur during pregnancy to the immune system, heart, and lungs make a pregnant women more likely to develop flu complications. These complications include sinus infections and serious lung infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The flu can cause high fevers which, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects and other complications in the developing fetus. In rare cases, the flu can lead to miscarriage or even death of the mother. This sheet tells you more about the flu, what to do if you get the flu, and what you can do to prevent infection.

Who is at risk for the flu?

Anyone can get the flu. But you are more likely to catch the flu if you:

• Are often around young children

• Work in a healthcare setting where you may be exposed to flu germs

• Live or work with someone who has the flu

• Haven’t had an annual flu shot

How does the flu spread?

The flu is caused by a virus. The virus spreads through the air in droplets when someone who has the flu coughs, sneezes, laughs, or talks. You can become infected when you breathe in the germ directly. You can also become infected when you touch a surface where the droplets have landed and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Touching used tissues, or sharing utensils, drinking glasses, or a toothbrush with an infected person can expose you to the flu germ, too.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Flu symptoms tend to come on quickly and may last a few days to a few weeks. They include:

• Fever that's usually higher than 100.4°F (38°C) and chills

• Sore throat and headache

• Dry cough

• Runny nose

• Tiredness and weakness

• Body and muscle aches

If you are pregnant and have flu-like symptoms

Here are some suggestions:

• Call your healthcare provider right away. Follow any instructions your healthcare provider gives you.

• You may be asked to get tested to confirm that you have the flu.

• Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines called antivirals. These medicines must be taken within 2 days of when your symptoms started. In some cases, your healthcare provider may not wait for test results to come back before starting you on antivirals. These medicines work by stopping the flu virus from reproducing in your body. This gives your body’s immune system a chance to fight the virus. After taking the medicine, your symptoms may be milder and you may recover quicker than without the medicine. The medicine may also prevent serious complications such as pneumonia.

• If you feel you need medicines to ease symptoms, ask your healthcare provider which ones are safe for you to take.

Easing flu symptoms

• Drink lots of fluids such as water, juice, and warm soup to prevent dehydration. A good rule is to drink enough so that you urinate your normal amount. Feeling dizzy or lightheaded most likely means you need to drink more fluid.

• Get plenty of rest.

• If you aren't hungry, eat smaller meals more often during the day to make sure you get enough calories.

• If you don't have a fever, put warm compresses on your forehead or sinuses to relieve congestion.

• Call your healthcare provider if you become short of breath.

Preventing the flu

• Get vaccinated. One of the best ways to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot. Pregnant women can safely get a flu shot. But pregnant women should not get the nasal spray vaccine for the flu. This is a live-virus vaccine and may be harmful to the baby.  

• Wash your hands often. Frequent handwashing is a proven way to prevent infection. Carry an alcohol-based hand gel containing at least 60% alcohol. Use it when you don’t have access to soap and water.

• Clean items you use often with disinfectant wipes. This includes phones, computer keyboards, and toys.

• Stay away from crowds and children as much as possible while you are pregnant. Stay away from anyone who has the flu.