Flu-Free and a Mom-to-Be: Flu Season Update
According to the CDC, treatment with oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (
Relenza) is recommended for pregnant women with suspected or confirmed influenza. Both can be taken during any trimester of pregnancy.
Continue to breastfeed, even if you think you have the flu. Breast milk contains antibodies that help fight off infections like the flu. Even before a woman realizes she has flu symptoms her body has begun to make antibodies against the flu that are passed on to her baby through her breast milk and will protect her baby from getting sick with the flu. Therefore, you should keep breastfeeding your baby, even when you're sick with the flu. But, it's important to take every precaution to help keep your baby healthy. For example, consider expressing your breast milk with a breast pump and asking someone who isn't sick to feed the baby with a bottle if you have these flu symptoms: runny nose, sore throat, cough or fever. To further prevent your baby from getting the virus, try not to sneeze or cough in his or her face and wash your hands often with soap and water. Don't rely on surgical masks for protection against flu. The CDC isn't sure how effective face masks are at preventing the transmission of the flu. Therefore, the CDC doesn't recommend face masks unless you are caring for someone with a flu-like illness or can't avoid being in a crowded setting where you think flu likely is present. Plan ahead. If you will have an infant or young child during the upcoming flu season, now is the time to think about what you will do if you or your child becomes sick with the flu. Check with your child's school or day care about sick policies. It also can't hurt to stock up on hand sanitizer, tissues, disinfectants, soaps and anything else you may need if you become sick, including food. Being prepared helps you avoid a shopping trip and possibly spreading the virus.Don't panic about the flu, but don't ignore it either. Flu may be a threat to your health this time of year, and it is a particular concern for pregnant women who may be at risk for more serious complications from the flu. To help reduce your chances of infection, the CDC recommends these steps:
- Cover your nose and mouth whenever you cough or sneeze and use a tissue or your sleeve instead of your hands. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands well and often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who could be sick with the flu.
- Ask your health care professional about any other specific steps you should take while pregnant or caring for young children.
- If you are pregnant and have flu symptoms, contact your health care professional right away.
For the latest information on flu vaccine availability for the flu season and other related information, visit: www.flu.gov.
