According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnant women are at high risk of getting the flu during the winter season.

The flu season always starts during the holiday season so if you are expecting it it’s best to get vaccinated before start celebrating with your family and friends. According to experts, being pregnant during flu season puts you at greater risk of getting the flu due to the decreased immunity your body has.

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Because pregnant women are more likely to get the flu that puts more babies at risk since their babies cannot be vaccinated until six months of age. Fortunately, their babies are protected from a number of infections due to the passive immunity they get from their mother’s vaccines. One of the most common symptoms of the flu is a high fever, which can also be associated with the neural tube defects for the developing fetus.

The best protection pregnant mothers have against the flu, according to CDC, is to get a  flu vaccine. This will reduce the rate of infection in pregnant women by 40 percent. Pregnant mothers should be mindful and take extra precautions and practice covering their coughs, washing hands and avoiding people who might be sick. Breastfeeding is also known for reducing the risk of infection and sickness in the infant.

If you are pregnant and you do get the flu, early treatment is imperative, according to CDC. Anti-viral drugs started that are used within the first 48 hours can make the symptoms much milder, especially for expecting mothers who are considered the more vulnerable population. Oral oseltamivir is reported to be one of the most effective and well-tolerated treatments of flu symptoms for expecting women.

It's better to be safe than sorry when pregnant during the holiday season. Germs can spread fast and what you may think is morning sickness could be something more serious. Getting a flu shot helps not just you but your baby for the first six months of their life.

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