There are many misconceptions surrounding flu vaccinations for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and their babies. With the flu season upon us the importance for the correct information on vaccinations for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers cannot be overemphasized. The listicle below debunks some common myths on flu vaccines for mums and babies.
The media release below will provide more insight into this topic.
Dispelling myths on flu vaccine safety for mums and babies
The flu season is upon us, and it’s important to have accurate facts when it comes to flu vaccination for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Influenza, a contagious respiratory illness, can have serious consequences, especially for vulnerable populations.
According to Lancet laboratories, 2024 has been the year with the highest influenza A virus and influenza B virus prevalence in April since recording started in 2018. A recent article in Spotlight, shows that the influenza virus claims around 11 000 lives per year in South Africa with around 40 000 people hospitalised.
“It’s never too late to get vaccinated,” advises Joha-Nita Jordaan, Divisional Manager of Dis-Chem and Dis-Chem Baby City Clinic. “We strongly encourage pregnant women and mothers to prioritise their health, especially for the well-being of their babies.”
Jordaan says there are common misconceptions about vaccination, and it’s crucial for mothers to understand that flu vaccination during pregnancy and breastfeeding offers dual benefits that protect the mother from flu-related complications, but also transmit essential antibodies to the infant through breast milk.
She further dispels some common myths on flu vaccines:
· Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not get the flu vaccine
Pregnant women should especially get the flu vaccine. Their immune systems are weaker during pregnancy. The inactivated flu vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy. It not only protects the mother but also passes essential antibodies to the developing baby, boosting immunity during those critical early months.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, studies show that flu vaccination during pregnancy lowers the risk of flu in infants under six months by a third, decreasing hospitalisation and death rates. Vaccinated mothers pass antibodies to their infants through breast milk, providing vital passive immunity during the vulnerable early stages of life. The flu vaccine can be given during any trimester of pregnancy.
Breastfeeding moms who contract the flu should practice thorough handwashing before touching their babies or feeding items. Antibodies passed through breast milk offer essential nutrients and infection-fighting power.
· Influenza is not serious so I don’t need to be vaccinated
Influenza can be severe and even fatal. Each year, approximately 11,000 South Africans lose their lives to the flu, with 40,000 hospitalised. Even healthy individuals can contract the flu, but pregnant women and breastfeeding moms are particularly vulnerable. Complications can include sinus and ear infections, pneumonia, heart or brain inflammations.
· The flu vaccine can give me the flu
The injected flu vaccine contains an inactivated virus that cannot cause influenza. Feeling slightly achy or feverish after vaccination is a normal immune response and typically lasts only a day or two.
I had the vaccine and still got the flu, so it doesn’t work
Several flu viruses circulate, and the vaccine targets specific strains. While some vaccinated individuals may still get the flu, vaccination improves protection and can contribute towards less severe symptoms during an infection. This is crucial for people with vulnerable immune systems.
