Getting vaccinated is the best way for pregnant women to help protect their babies and themselves from influenza (flu).
Should pregnant women get vaccinated against flu?
Yes, flu vaccination is recommended for women who are pregnant or will be pregnant during flu season. Pregnant women are at increased risk for complications from flu, which can include pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death.
Pregnant women can be vaccinated during any trimester with an inactivated, injectable influenza vaccine (they should not receive the nasal spray vaccine).
Is vaccination safe for pregnant women and their babies?
Yes. Vaccination is the best way for pregnant women to protect themselves, their developing babies, and newborns from flu.
When should pregnant women get vaccinated against flu?
Flu viruses typically circulate in the US during the fall and winter each year. For most adults, September and October are generally good times to be vaccinated each year. For women who are in the third trimester of pregnancy, getting vaccinated during July and August can help protect their infants from flu for several months after birth (when they are too young to be vaccinated).
Once I give birth, how can I make sure my baby is protected against flu?
You can actually start protecting your baby before birth by getting vaccinated against flu when pregnant.
Infants cannot be vaccinated against flu until they are age 6 months or older, but they are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from flu. Make sure that everyone who comes in close contact with your baby is vaccinated against flu.
Beginning at age 6 months, all children should be vaccinated against flu every year.
Learn about other vaccines recommended during pregnancy
Reviewed September 2024
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention