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.

Influenza viruses are spread when a person who has the flu coughs, sneezes or speaks. The viruses spread into the air, and other people inhale them. Flu can also be spread when a person touches a surface that has viruses on it (such as a door handle) and then touches his or her nose, eyes or mouth.

Pregnancy and the Flu
Complications of flu, such as bacterial pneumonia and dehydration, can be serious and even fatal. Pregnancy can increase the risk of these and other complications. Pregnant women are more likely to be hospitalized from complications of the flu than non-pregnant women of the same age.  Pregnancy can change a pregnant women's immune system and affect her heart and lungs. These changes can increase the risk for complications from the flu.

Flu shots are generally considered safe at any stage of pregnancy. Almost all women who will be pregnant during flu season (November through March) should receive a flu shot. The only exception is pregnant women who are allergic to eggs. Eggs products are used to make the vaccine.

Pregnant women should avoid the nasal flu mist vaccine (LAIV). It is not approved for use by pregnant women.

To lower the chances of having the flu spread within your household, it's a good idea for family members to get flu shots. Here are some other tips for preventing the flu:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Clean your hands often. Washing your hands helps protect you from germs.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that has germs on it and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Stay home when you're sick. If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. This may prevent those around you from getting sick.

If You Get the Flu
Call your health care provider if you think you have the flu. Get lots of rest, and drink a lot of nonalcoholic liquids. Do not use over-the-counter cold and flu medications, herbal products or dietary supplements without first talking to your health care provider. Not all over-the-counter medications are safe to take during pregnancy.

For More Information
• Read the March of Dimes article on influenza and children.
• Visit the Web site of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

January 2007