Swine flu in pregnancy can endanger mother and unborn child

CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Taking flu or H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, lightly during pregnancy can increase risks for both the mother and the unborn child. According to the CDC, pregnant women face a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalisation due to influenza compared with the general population. A high fever during infection can also be a cause of concern for the foetus.

During H1N1 infection, a pregnant woman may face an increased risk of pneumonia, breathing difficulty and serious illness. Therefore, if symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body ache or respiratory distress appear during pregnancy, it is important to contact a doctor immediately. Earlier H1N1 guidelines also advised pregnant women to seek immediate medical advice if symptoms develop. To prevent flu, an injectable flu vaccine is recommended during pregnancy. According to the CDC, it can be given at any stage of pregnancy, and vaccination helps protect not only the mother but also the baby during the early months after birth.

Note: Do not self-medicate if flu symptoms occur during pregnancy. Treatment and antiviral medicines should be taken only on a doctor’s advice.

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