Fatal influenza A pneumonia in pregnancy

Today, influenza A infections are an uncommon cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. This is a report of a 20-year-old pregnant woman who died from pneumonia caused by influenza A/Philippines/1982. The decreased immune system and respiratory functions of pregnancy make pregnant women especially susceptible to having a complicated influenza infection, though such infections probably do not directly threaten the fetus. The use of influenza immunizations and antiviral medication during pregnancy is discussed.