Of course the word on the street is that pregnant women should be offered the flu jab... but why? There are a number of different strains of flu, and incidently the findings are that most of the current strains found circulating and being passed from person to person can be covered by the current vaccines available - one of which is the resurgence of Swine Flu. The UK government is currently urging all pregnant women to get vaccinated. Pregnant women are 4 times more likely to be hospitalised with the flu than healthy women and 2 times more likely to die as a result. These startling statistics reflect the fact that the immune system is compromised during pregnancy, however many pregnant women are refusing to take this as there is not enough long term data on the vaccine as far as its safety for pregnancy is concerned. It has been made clear that the vaccine is safe even though the debate is still strong. It is important for you to realise that the choice must be yours as to whether you decide to take it or not. If you do contract flu while pregnant, then the chances are you will be OK, but if it develops to pneumonia then it may be more difficult to shift due to your ever decreasing lung capacity.
Symptoms include:
- High Fever
- Extreme Tiredness / Exhaustion
- Headache and Sinus Pressure
- Coughing
- Sore Throat
- Runny or Stuffy Nose
- Muscle Aches
Ways to try and avoid getting the flu:
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
- Wash your hands before eating and before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick and encourage others to do the same.
- Take your prenatal vitamins regularly and consider taking the following extras: Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Folic Acid.
Hopefully you won't get the flu this year, but if you do:
- Drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated
- Make sure you keep your temperature at a safe level (lower than 38C) by taking paracetamol as required.
- If symptoms or fever persists - inform your GP
Take Care
Kieren
No comments:
Post a Comment