Pregnant? Your Flu Vaccine Helps Protect You and Your Baby
One simple step, two layers of protection. Pregnancy comes with a lot to organise - blood tests, scans, appointments, screening decisions, supplements, birth planning and all the life admin that comes with preparing for a baby.
Your flu vaccine is one of the simpler things to tick off the list.
In Australia, influenza vaccination is recommended in every pregnancy and can be given at any stage of pregnancy. The vaccine itself is funded under the National Immunisation Program for pregnant women.
Why does flu matter more in pregnancy?
Even if you are usually fit and healthy, pregnancy changes the way your immune system, heart and lungs work. This can make influenza more serious for you, and flu in pregnancy is also linked with a higher risk of complications such as preterm birth.
That is why your flu vaccine is not just another appointment. It is a practical step to help protect both you and your baby.
How does it help your baby?
When you have the flu vaccine during pregnancy, your body makes antibodies. These antibodies cross the placenta and can help protect your baby in the first six months of life, before they are old enough to have their own flu vaccine.
Is the flu vaccine safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Inactivated influenza vaccines can be given safely during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant women should receive an inactivated flu vaccine rather than the live attenuated nasal spray vaccine.
When should you book?
You can have your flu vaccine at any stage of pregnancy.
At Walker Street Doctors, you can book your flu vaccine as part of an antenatal appointment, or as a focused vaccination appointment if that is all you need.
The vaccine itself is funded for pregnant women under the National Immunisation Program. Usual consultation or administration fees may apply.
What about your household?
Flu spreads easily at home. Partners, children, grandparents and anyone spending regular time around you or your newborn should consider their annual flu vaccine too. The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends annual flu vaccination for household contacts of people at higher risk of severe influenza.
Feeling unwell?
If you are pregnant and develop flu-like symptoms - fever, cough, body aches, fatigue, headache or sudden worsening respiratory symptoms - please contact your GP, maternity provider or health service promptly.
Call 000 immediately for severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, collapse, confusion, or if you are seriously concerned.
Ready to tick this off your pregnancy list?
Protecting your baby starts with protecting yourself. Book your pregnancy flu vaccine online with Nurse Danny.
