Are you pregnant or know someone who is? If so, whether or not to receive a flu shot while pregnant will be a decision to consider carefully. There's some information below to help with the process - some of which is conflicting. Remember... Trust your gut. We know what to do. Deep down, we know what's best for us and for our babies. And whatever you decide, know that this is your decision and no one else's.
- The Centers for Disease Control says the flu shot is safe for pregnant women http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/pregnant.htm yet flu vaccine manufacturers package inserts say: “Safety and effectiveness has not been established in pregnant women or nursing mothers and should only be given to a pregnant woman if clearly needed.”
- Dr. Cindy Schneider, M.D writes "Vaccines are given to healthy individuals in the hope that they will provide protection against infection. But hope is not science. We will explore the science." in This Physician's Assessment of Flu Vaccines in Pregnancy: http://www.safeminds.org/blog/2014/09/24/physicians-assessment-flu-vaccines-pregnancy/
- Flu Vaccines in Pregnancy and Childhood: What You Need to Know: http://www.safeminds.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SafeMinds_FluCampaign_13-14.pdf
- Dr. Aviva Romm discusses current recommendations, risks of the shot, risks of the flu, and offers solid advice: http://avivaromm.com/flu-vaccine-in-pregnancy-whats-a-girl-to-do
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