Pregnancy During Cold and Flu Season

Women’s Care recommends flu shots for all women who will be pregnant during flu season, November to March. Because the flu shot is made from killed (inactivated) influenza virus, it’s considered safe at any stage of pregnancy. However, pregnant women should not use the nasal spray flu vaccine, which is made with live, weakened influenza virus. Be sure to speak with your Women’s Care provider about getting a flu shot.

Also, a number of over-the-counter medications are effective and safe for pregnant women when they have colds or flu.