What every pregnant mum needs to know about the flu this winter

Getting the flu can be much more than just the sniffles and body aches for a pregnant women - here's how to protect yourself and your unborn baby. 

For pregnant women, getting the flu is more than just inconvenient, it can be dangerous and lead to serious complications for mum and bub.

This year, health authorities have already signalled Aussies are in for a tough flu season.

The nation is bracing for a flu epidemic with more than 34,000 confirmed cases this year — almost five times the number for the same period last year.

With May through to July being the peak time for catching the virus, medical experts are encouraging people to take precautions now - including getting vaccinated. 

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Pregnant women are more at risk of complications from the flu. Source: iStock.

The dangers of getting the flu while pregnant

As this year’s flu season starts to pick up, Kin Fertility’s GP, Dr Kirsty Wallace-Hor has offered her best advice for pregnant women and new mums - who are particularly vulnerable. 

“Influenza — or the flu — is highly contagious,” Dr Kirsty says.

“Certain groups of people are more at risk of getting severe disease. Expectant women are one of these groups and this is mainly because immunity levels decrease during pregnancy.”

A lowered immunity happens so a woman’s body doesn’t reject a fetus, but it also leaves her more vulnerable to catching the flu and struggling with complications - which can be as severe as meningitis and lung inflammation.

RELATED: Pregnant? This is why you need a flu vaccination

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself against the flu. Source: iStock.

Preventing the flu during pregnancy

Getting the flu vaccine is the single most effective way to prevent the flu while pregnant — and it is perfectly safe to do so. It is also free for pregnant women.

“The flu vaccination is safe for pregnant women to have at any stage of their pregnancy, and it is also safe while breastfeeding,” Dr Kirsty says. “This reduces the risk of serious disease and potential harm to the baby if the mother gets infected.”

Even if you’ve gotten the flu vaccine before, Dr Kirsty advises that it “changes every year to cover the most common strains of the virus that are expected for that year. This is why it’s important to get it annually.”

Of course, the vaccine isn’t 100 per cent effective, so other things you can do to stay healthy during flu season include

• avoiding close contact with people who are unwell
• washing hands regularly
• avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth

RELATED: Do parents need to worry about Kindy Flu?

Babies should be kept away from people who are unwell. Source: iStock.

Protecting your newborn during flu season

New babies are particularly vulnerable to illness due to their immature immune systems.

“Being vaccinated against the flu during pregnancy and breastfeeding can provide some protection," Dr Kristy says.

"Plus, newborns can and should get the vaccine as well, with free vaccinations being available for children from 6 months to 5 years of age.”

To further protect your little one, you can also:

• Make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need to strengthen their immune system, whether it is through breast milk or formula
• Ask everyone to wash their hands (or apply hand sanitiser) before holding your baby
• If you go to public places, keep your baby covered with a blanket
• Monitor for symptoms and know when to contact your doctor (if your baby isn’t eating, has a high fever, has difficulty breathing and/or is fussier than usual, it’s time to make a call).

What if you get the flu while pregnant?

If you’ve been experiencing symptoms such as muscle aches, fever, headaches, chills or throat soreness, you may be down with the flu and the first thing you should do is contact a GP.

They’ll be able to confirm a diagnosis, and if needed prescribe pregnancy-safe, antiviral medication to help reduce symptoms.

Additionally, there are a few things you can do to make yourself more comfortable:

• Stay hydrated - Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial to support your immune system. If you’re struggling with chest congestion, opt for a cup of tea, bone broth, or cup of hot water with lemon and honey..
• Rest - This is important during your entire pregnancy, but especially when you’re sick.
• Take your prenatal vitamin - this is beneficial throughout the whole pregnancy, but particularly when you’re not feeling well, as it helps ensure both your and your baby’s nutritional needs are being met.
• Eat healthy - Focus on immune-boosting foods like oranges, broccoli, raspberries, and spinach, as well as healthy proteins and foods that are rich in zinc. 

If you experience dizziness, ongoing chest pain, a high fever that won’t go away even with medication, or decreased foetal movement, call your doctor right away or head to the emergency room.

If you're worried about the flu season and how to best protect your family, please speak to your local health practitioner for advice. 

Originally published as What every pregnant mum needs to know about the flu this winter