The Flu Shot Trifecta: Protects Mom, Fetus and Infant

If you’re pregnant and haven’t gotten a flu shot it’s time to get one, says Geeta Swamy, MD, a Duke Medicine obstetrician/gynecologist who recommends pregnant women get the vaccine before, during and even after the flu season peaks. “Maternal immunizations protect the mother, but have an even greater potential impact on your baby,” says Swamy, a nationally recognized expert on immunizations during pregnancy. “It’s only one vaccine but it has three very important benefits – it protects the mom, it protects the fetus by preventing the risks of preterm delivery and low birth weight, and it protects the newborn before he or she is old enough to be vaccinated.” While pregnant women are not at higher risk for getting the flu, they are more likely to suffer serious complications...

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