In this article:
Why Is the Flu Vaccine Recommended During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy alters the immune system, heart, and lungs, making influenza more likely to turn severe. Pregnant women with flu face a higher chance of hospitalisation compared with non-pregnant women of the same age.The vaccine also protects the baby: antibodies generated by the mother cross the placenta, giving the newborn some immunity against flu for the first few months of life, a period when infants cannot yet be vaccinated themselves.
Current guidance from the CDC, WHO, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) supports influenza vaccination during pregnancy, including during the first, second, or third trimester.
A study found no increase in caesarean delivery, stillbirth, NICU admission, or congenital anomalies linked to maternal flu vaccination, and noted a possible protective effect against low birth weight.
Which Flu Vaccine Is Recommended During Pregnancy?
Pregnant women should receive an inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) or an appropriate recombinant influenza vaccine, depending on what is licensed and available. The injectable flu vaccine does not contain live influenza virus capable of causing flu infection.The live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), commonly given as a nasal spray, is not recommended during pregnancy.
For pregnant women, the flu shot is considered safe during pregnancy and is recommended by health groups because pregnancy can make it more likely to get sick from the flu. The flu shot does not cause the flu because it uses parts of a virus
What Are the Side Effects of the Flu Vaccine During Pregnancy?
Side effects are usually mild and short-lived. They may include:- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Muscle aches for a day or two
- Nausea
- Headache
How Does the Flu Vaccine Protect the Baby?
After vaccination, the mother's immune system produces antibodies against influenza. Some of these antibodies cross the placenta and reach the developing baby.This provides the baby with passive protection against influenza during the early months after birth, when babies are too young to receive their own flu vaccine.
A study has also found lower rates of influenza illness and influenza-related hospitalisation among infants born to mothers vaccinated during pregnancy.
Who Should Be Cautious About the Flu Vaccine in Pregnancy?
Women with a history of severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine or to any of its components should discuss alternatives with their doctor.The vaccine is considered appropriate for pregnant women with common conditions such as gestational diabetes, thyroid disorders, or mild anaemia, since these conditions themselves raise the risk of flu complications rather than the risk from vaccination.
Flu Vaccination During Pregnancy in India
Indian clinical guidelines support influenza vaccination for pregnant women, though uptake has historically been inconsistent, in part due to differing advice on gestational timing across guidelines. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recommends the vaccine for pregnant women irrespective of the stage of pregnancy, recognising the protection it offers to both mother and baby.Because flu circulates through the year in India rather than in a single fixed season, pregnant women can check the National Centre for Disease Control’s (NCDC) seasonal influenza updates for current activity in their state and discuss the right timing with their obstetrician.
For pregnant women, discussing flu vaccination at the first antenatal visit, rather than waiting for a specific season, offers timely protection for both mother and baby.
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FAQs on Is the Flu Vaccine Safe During Pregnancy?
- Can the flu vaccine harm the baby during pregnancy?
No. Large safety studies show no link between maternal flu vaccination and stillbirth, congenital anomalies, or NICU admission. - Can the flu vaccine cause miscarriage?
Current evidence does not show an increased risk of miscarriage from influenza vaccination during pregnancy. - Can I get the flu from the flu shot?
No. The injectable inactivated flu vaccine cannot cause influenza infection.