Health Tip: If You Get the Flu While Pregnant

(HealthDay News) -- The flu may be dangerous enough, but it's even more of a threat for women who are pregnant.

All women should get the annual flu vaccine, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises.

If you do develop the flu while pregnant, the CDC suggests:

  • Begin treatment as soon as possible. Antiviral drugs work best when started within 48 hours of symptoms.
  • Antiviral drugs may diminish symptoms, make you feel better faster and help prevent serious complications for you and baby.
  • Your doctor may suggest taking oral oseltamivir, which has been studied thoroughly.
  • Fever during pregnancy has been linked to increased risk of birth defects. So if you develop a fever, contact your doctor immediately.

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    What to Know About Anaphylaxis: Symptoms, Triggers & Treatment

    How To Help Your Back-To-School Kid With Their Allergies

    Wildfire Smoke Alters Immune System, Study Says

    Misconceptions Over Preventing Peanut Allergy Persist Among Parents, Study Shows

    UV Light Effective Against Indoor Allergens, Study Says

    Digital Tool Potentially Predicts Childhood Asthma

    Smoking, Vaping Weed Increases Risk Of Asthma Attacks Among Young Adults, Study Finds

    Antibiotics Won't Help Ease Asthma-Linked Wheezing in Kids

    Severe Asthma Often Comes With Other Serious Health Problems

    UV Air Filters Cut Airborne Asthma Triggers, Study Finds

    Nasal Spray Flu Vaccines Create 'Battlefield' In Adults' Noses

    RFK Jr. Says Fewer Flu Vaccines for Kids May Be a 'Better Thing'

    Holiday Flu Surge Drives Record Illness Across the United States

    New Flu Strain Weakened This Year’s Vaccine Protection, CDC Says

    Scientists' Push For a Universal Vaccine Takes a Key Step Forward