1. Swine Flu (H1N1) FAQ Slideshow Pictures
2. Strep or Sore Throat Slideshow Pictures
3. Flu Fighter Foods Slideshow Pictures

In this Article

• Pregnancy and H1N1 influenza (swine flu) introduction
• What if I am pregnant and I get 2009 H1N1?
• What can I do to protect myself, my baby and my family?
• Is it safe for pregnant women to get a flu shot?
• What are the symptoms of seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu?
• What should I do if I get sick?
• How is 2009 H1N1 flu treated?
• When should I get emergency medical care?
• Why does CDC advise pregnant women to receive the 2009 H1N1 influenza (flu) vaccine (shot)?
• Will the seasonal flu shot also protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu?
• Are there flu vaccines that pregnant women should not get?
• Can the seasonal flu shot and the 2009 H1N1 flu shot be given at the same time?
• Is the 2009 H1N1 flu shot safe for pregnant women?
• What are the possible side effects of the 2009 H1N1 flu shots?
• What about the H1N1 nasal spray vaccine?
• What about breastfeeding and the H1N1 influenza and vaccinations?
• Find a local Obstetrician-Gynecologist in your town
• Pregnancy: Swine Flu and the H1N1 Vaccine Index

The seasonal flu shot has been given to millions of pregnant women over many years. Flu shots have not been shown to cause harm to pregnant women or their babies. The 2009 H1N1 flu shot is made in the same way and in the same places as the seasonal flu shot. It is very important for pregnant women to get both the seasonal flu shot and the 2009 H1N1 flu shot.

Anybody who will be taking care of babies younger than 6 months of age should get a seasonal flu shot and a 2009 H1N1 flu shot to protect against the flu. This includes you and any family members or other people who will be caring for your baby for the first 6 months of his or her life.

Take these everyday steps to help prevent the spread of germs and protect your health and the health of your family:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or sneeze into your sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  
  
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand rub can be used.
  
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
  
  
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  
  
  • If there is 2009 H1N1 flu in your community, pay extra attention to your body and how you are feeling. If you think you have the flu, call your doctor or clinic right away.
    
    
  • If you are pregnant and you live with or have close contact with someone who has 2009 H1N1 flu, talk with your doctor about medicines to prevent flu.
    
    
  • Have a plan for someone else to take care of a sick family member.
    
    
• Stock up on household, health, and emergency supplies, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®), water, and non-perishable foods.