[Influenza infection and pregnancy]

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Context:

• Influenza poses significant health risks to pregnant women, increasing susceptibility to respiratory complications and hospitalization.
• Systemic influenza infections during pregnancy can trigger uterine contractions, potentially leading to miscarriage or preterm labor.

Purpose:

• To review the risks associated with influenza in pregnant women and discuss management strategies.
• To highlight the importance and safety of influenza vaccination during pregnancy for maternal and infant protection.

Summary:

• Pregnant women are at increased risk for severe influenza outcomes. While specific management guidelines are lacking, prompt diagnosis and potential antiviral treatment (oseltamivir) are considered.
• Influenza vaccination during pregnancy is safe and effective, providing maternal immunity and passive antibody transfer to newborns, who cannot be vaccinated before six months of age.
• Maternal antibodies protect infants from severe influenza, as the vaccine is not approved for children under six months.

Impact:

• Influenza vaccination is recommended for pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy to prevent severe illness and complications.
• Vaccination reduces the incidence of influenza-related respiratory complications in pregnant women.
• Protecting pregnant women against influenza indirectly safeguards newborns from severe infection.