Why do doctors recommend getting a flu shot during pregnancy?

The flu is more likely to cause severe illness in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Flu also may be harmful for a pregnant woman’s developing baby. A common flu symptom is fever, which may be associated with neural tube defects and other adverse outcomes for a developing baby.

The influenza vaccination given during pregnancy has been shown to protect both the mother and her baby for several months after birth from the flu.

For more information regarding influenza vaccination during pregnancy, speak with your healthcare professional.