Influenza Vaccination
What are the Risks of the Flu (Influenza) Infection for Pregnant Women?
Pregnancy can increase your risk of having more serious complications from the flu because your immune system is suppressed in pregnancy. Pregnant women should be mindful of looking after themselves during the flu season.
Complications associated with the flu infection in pregnant women are the same for the rest of the population but in severe cases, the flu can increase your risk of miscarriage or premature labour.
If you are pregnant during the flu season, it would be a good idea to consider an annual flu vaccine to protect you from illness.
Is the Influenza Vaccination safe for Pregnant Women?
The Australian Government advises that the influenza vaccine is safe to have for pregnant women in all stages of pregnancy.
The possible side effects of the flu vaccination are the same as for the rest of the population.
The flu vaccine cannot give you or your unborn baby the flu because it contains no active virus. A flu vaccination during pregnancy protects you and your newborn for their first six months.
Pregnant women should be sure to let their doctors know of any concerns they may have in getting the influenza vaccine and ask any questions.
Am I eligible for a free vaccination as a Pregnant Woman?
Yes. All pregnant women (in any trimester) are eligible to receive the free seasonal flu vaccination during pregnancy. Please note, your doctor may charge a consultation fee to receive the influenza vaccine.
Covid-19 Vaccination during pregnancy:
There is a lot of information that has circled social media and the internet that can lead people to believe that the flu vaccination and the Covid-19 Vaccination are unsafe for pregnant women. However, after doing my own research I have come to the conclusion that, similar to the flu vaccination, the Covid-19 vaccination is also a safe and effective way to protect pregnant women and their baby.
You can read more about information on the covid-19 vaccination here.
What are the Possible Side Effects of the Flu Vaccine as a Pregnant Women?
Pain, redness and swelling at the injection site of the flu vaccine, which is similar to any medication. Occasionally you may experience:
- a low-grade temperature
- muscle aches
- drowsiness or tiredness
- a temporary small lump at the injection site
Most side effects are minor and last a short time, resolve without any treatment and do not lead to any long-term problems.
Generally, mild reactions begin within six to 12 hours. As with any medication, very rarely there is the possibility of a severe allergic reaction which will usually occur within 15 minutes of receiving a vaccine.
Hence stay in your GP’s surgery a short time after the injection to make sure all is ok.
For more information about the influenza vaccination, you can read about it on the Australian Government’s website.
https://www.health.gov.au/internet/immunise/publishing.nsf/Content/immunise-influenza
