Swine flu (H1N1) and pregnancy

swine flu, h1n1

What is H1N1?

H1N1 (formerly called swine flu) is a type of the flu virus. In the spring of 2009, the first cases were reported in the United States. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have indicated that a worldwide pandemic of H1N1 is underway. This means that there will most likely be a lot of cases of H1N1 this flu season. It also means that the CDC and WHO are working hard to prevent the spread of this type of flu and have already developed a shot to keep people from getting sick.

What if I am pregnant this flu season?

A recent study by the CDC found the pregnant women are about 4 times more likely to be hospitalized and are at higher risk for complications and death from H1N1 than the regular population. No one is exactly certain why pregnancy seems to put women at higher risk. It may be that the developing baby puts extra stress on a mother's breathing and lung function which could lead to flu pneumonia. When a women is pregnant her immune system may not work as well which could also increase her risk. Despite this concerning information, experts agree that most pregnant women who get H1N1 will recover without serious problems but it is important to take special precautions.

What can I do to protect myself, my family and my baby?

Some simple precautions could help lower your risk of catching or spreading the H1N1 flu. Pregnant women should wash their hands often and avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth. It is important to avoid contact with anyone who has flu-like symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, and cough. The CDC is also encouraging pregnant women to have a plan of care if family members become ill.

What are the symptoms of H1N1?

Symptoms are simliar to the seasonal flu and may include the following:

- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Body aches and/or headaches
- Chills, fatigue and/or muscle aches

If you develop these symptoms or if you are exposed to someone who has the flu or H1N1, there are medicines that can be used safely in pregnancy. In some situations medicine may be started for high risk patients (like young children and pregnant women) before test results are completed. The CDC recommends the use of Tamiflu or Relenza for the prevention or treatment of H1N1 flu. Neither of these medicines have been associated with risks or complications during pregnancy although they are not well studied. Experts do agree; however, that the risk of untreated flu for both mother and baby outweighs any potential concern with the use of antiviral flu medications.

Can I get vaccinated for H1N1?

Yes! The regular flu vaccine is available now and all pregnant women should start with that vaccine. The flu shot can be given at any point in pregnancy and it is also important to encourage family members to get vaccinated.

The CDC is finishing testing and development of an H1N1 vaccine. That shot will be available in mid-October. Pregnant women and those caring for young children are considered high risk and will be offered the vaccine before the regular population. To find out when the vaccine will be available, you can check with your physician's office regularly, ask to be placed on a notification list or check the CDC website weekly.

How can I get more information?

Stay in contact with your health care provider. Medical offices and hospitals will be receiving frequent updates and recommendations from the CDC, Department of Public Health and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG).

Remember--the best defense is a strong offense. Simple precautions can help protect you, your baby and your family.