Should pregnant people get the flu shot?
Yes! Pregnant people are at greater risk of getting severely sick with the flu than people of the same age who are not pregnant. When you are pregnant, changes to your immune system, heart, and lungs can make it more likely that you get very sick with the flu and require hospitalization. Flu, especially a fever caused by flu, can be harmful to a developing baby and may cause long-term complications.
Plus, getting vaccinated while pregnant can help protect your baby from flu after birth. The flu shot gives you antibodies that are passed to your baby. This reduces an infant’s risk of contracting the flu before they are old enough to be vaccinated, which should happen when they are six months old.
If you get your flu shot outside of your doctor’s office (like at a pharmacy or flu clinic), make sure to tell them you are pregnant. Then bring the records of your flu shot to your prenatal provider.
When should I get my flu shot?
As soon as possible! People in Philadelphia can get the flu anywhere from October through April. If you have not gotten your flu shot yet this year, it’s not too late!
Is the flu shot safe for a pregnant person and their developing baby?
Yes. Millions of pregnant people have received the flu shot over many years with an excellent safety record.
Can I get the flu shot on the same day I get other vaccines?
Yes. You can get the flu shot at the same time you get other vaccines such as the COVID-19 and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines.
Can a breastfeeding person receive the flu shot?
Yes, people who are breastfeeding should get the flu vaccine. Getting the flu shot reduces a parent’s risk of getting sick and passing the flu to their baby. This is especially important for babies younger than 6 months who are too young to get vaccinated for the flu.