Stay Healthy throughout Your Pregnancy

That's not the only thing you should, do, however. You also need to practice preventive protection. That means washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also are effective. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze and avoid touching your nose and mouth. Also, try to stay away from people who might be sick, and avoid crowded, close rooms if possible.

Plus, continue all the things you're already doing to ensure a healthy pregnancy—eating right, exercising moderately, sleeping adequately and managing stress. All will help strengthen your immune system so it is better prepared to fight off any viruses that do come calling.

And if you get the flu, contact your health care professional right away. It's important that he or she monitors you closely so you don't become dehydrated, your fever doesn't get too high and you don't develop complications. If you think you may have the flu, talk to your health care professional about whether you should take antiviral medications—those medications that can help minimize the effects of the flu when they are taken within 48 hours of your first symptoms.

For the latest information on flu vaccines and other related information, visit: www.flu.gov.

For families who have lost a child to flu, Families Fighting Flu provides support and resources. Click here to learn more: www.familiesfightingflu.org.