A group of the largest health care organizations in the country, including the March of Dimes, is encouraging pregnant women to get their flu shot this year. Pregnant women should receive a Flu Shot because they are at higher risk of complications from influenza, especially pneumonia and dehydration.
The president of the March of Dimes, Dr. Jennifer L. Howse said in a statement that the organization urged the pregnant women to get their flu shots as the flu poses a high risk of illness and even death during the pregnancy. She said the flu vaccine had been seen effective and safe.
The organization has also said that the pregnant women should get influenza shot for better effect rather than the nasal spray vaccination as the shot is made with he killed version of virus and the nasal spray is weaker than the shot and made with live virus.
Flu symptoms include high fever, headache, extreme tiredness, coughing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. Some sufferers, especially children, have nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Only one shot is needed this year compared to the two vaccines that were given last year. This vaccine will protect individuals from H3N2 and 2009 H1N1.
People who are in close contact with young kids and expecting women should also get the flu vaccine. Because of this, many hospitals are requiring mandatory vaccinations for all employees.
This has raised some controversy as privacy issues and health concerns of those adversely affected by the vaccine come to light. “Patients that I treat have the right to refuse any treatment or medication, I want that same right,” Delta Waters, a nurse at one facility said.
However, those who favor the plan cite the ease of transmission in a crowded health facility and the need to protect patients with compromised immune systems, such as pregnant women.
