It is that time of the year when someone’s feeling ‘under the weather’, and another’s throat is feeling a ‘little off’. In the midst of the seasonal flu, and viral and bacterial infections, the New COVID variant JN.1 is also starting to resurface, causing worry among the general public. Experts are now suggesting that it may be time to mask up again.
For the average person these things are as it is a matter of concern, but for a pregnant woman even more so. During these 9 months they are much more vulnerable to infections and at the risk of contracting flu, Covid or pulmonary respiratory diseases.
OB GYN experts at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital always recommend that mothers-to-be and their immediate family get a vaccination for the flu, for safety. After all, a pregnant woman’s health depends on her own self-care as well the health of those around her.
Studies conducted globally show that if the mother is vaccinated, the newborn is likely to be healthier and have fewer visits to the emergency room or contract any severe infection.
By and large flu vaccines are safe for both, the mother as well as the child in her womb, and a pregnant woman can get a vaccine shot under the guidance of her doctor. One should bear in mind that most vaccines take about two weeks to be fully effective, and hence must take necessary caution even after getting a shot, to avoid infections.
READ: Importance of Vaccination
Ways to reduce the risk of respiratory infections:
- Stay home when you’re feeling unwell
- If anyone in the family is not well, maintain sufficient distance till they recover
- Avoid trips to crowded places
- Wear a mask at public places
- Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces, doorknobs, tables and switches
- Carry at least two or three clean handkerchiefs, and cover your mouth while coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
- Carry a hand sanitizer when out
- Frequently and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water
- Have a simple but consistent exercise / yoga routine to maintain physical health
- Practice meditation and deep breathing to diffuse stress
- Eat a diet which consists of home-cooked food and fresh fruits, nuts and salads
- Keep your fluid intake high
- Have your recommended daily multivitamins as prescribed
- Rest at short intervals
Most people who become sick with the flu, can comfortably recover from home. However, much more care is required when it comes to a mommy-to-be. If you feel you have any symptoms or are feeling unwell, immediately contact your doctor, as there are suitable anti-viral medicines which can be safely consumed during pregnancy.
A flu shot is a simple yet effective way to minimize the risk, and it is always recommended that you speak to your doctor and get it done on time.
