Pandemic influenza and pregnant women
2008
Pandemic Influenza and Pregnant Women
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Sonja A. Rasmussen, Denise J. Jamieson, Joseph S. Bresee
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
Planning for a future influenza pandemic should include considerations specific to pregnant women.
Conclusion
Pregnant women should be considered a high-risk population during an influenza pandemic due to their increased risk for severe disease and potential risks to the fetus.
Supporting Evidence
- Pregnant women are at increased risk for influenza-associated illness and death.
- Adverse effects on the fetus can occur even without direct viral infection.
- Pregnant women have been shown to be at increased risk for influenza complications during interpandemic periods.
Takeaway
Pregnant women are more likely to get very sick from the flu, so we need to make special plans to help them during a flu outbreak.
Limitations
Limited data on the effects of influenza on pregnant women and their fetuses.
Participant Demographics
Pregnant women.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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