Flu activity has increased over the past week and has caused more than 6 million people in the United States to become ill so far this season. AdventHealth Centra Care physicians saw this same pattern last year at this time and in the past week they saw a dramatic increase.
An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to help protect against flu. Vaccination has been shown to have many benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses, hospitalizations and even the risk of flu-related death in children. It only takes a few minutes to get the vaccine. All AdventHealth Centra Care locations offer the flu shot and walk-ins are always welcomed. Once you receive your flu shot, it takes two weeks for your body to develop antibodies that provide protection. So don't wait... go today!
Severe Flu Increases Risks for Pregnant Mothers and Babies
Flu is more likely to cause severe illness in pregnant women than in women of reproductive age who are not pregnant. Changes in the immune system, heart, and lungs during pregnancy make pregnant women (and women up to two weeks postpartum) more prone to severe illness from flu, including illness resulting in hospitalization.
Flu also may be harmful for a pregnant woman’s developing baby. A common flu symptom is fever, which may be associated with neural tube defects and other adverse outcomes for a developing baby. Getting vaccinated can also help protect a baby after birth from flu, as the mom passes antibodies onto the developing baby during her pregnancy
Symptoms of the flu can include:
- Sudden, excessive fatigue
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Fever
- Sore throat
- A persistent cough
- Tightness of the chest
- Wheezing, runny nose and congestion
- Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting
