H1N1 (Swine Flu) and Pregnancy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that the H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine clinical trials for healthy adults are going well with no adverse side effects among those tested.  The clinical trials also indicate healthy adults will only require one dose of the vaccine.  Clinical trials are still underway for children and pregnant women.

Pregnant women are the leading group recommended to receive the 2009 H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine as vaccine becomes available in Florida. If you are pregnant and want more information about the vaccine, please reach out to your primary health care provider.

Vaccines will arrive in Florida in batches over an extended time.  It is important to remember the H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine is not intended to replace the seasonal flu vaccine, but is to be used in addition to the seasonal flu vaccine. Seasonal flu and H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine may be administered on the same day.

Seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against H1N1 Swine Flu, and H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine will not protect against seasonal flu.

BREASTFEEDING AND PROTECTION OF INFANTS DURING

SWINE FLU OUTBREAK

The CDC guidelines state that “Infants who are not breastfeeding are more vulnerable to infection and hospitalization for severe respiratory illness than infants who are breastfeeding.” Women who deliver should be encouraged to initiate breastfeeding early and feed frequently.

Certain concerns expressed regarding breastfeeding are addressed here.

 What can I do to protect my baby?

Take everyday precautions such as hand washing and using an alcohol-based hand rub before feeding your baby. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing.

Should I stop breastfeeding if I think I have come in contact with the flu?

No. Mothers pass on protective antibodies to their baby during breastfeeding.  Antibodies are a type of protein made by the immune system in the body, and they help fight off infection. A mother’s milk has custom- made antibodies to fight diseases her baby is exposed to. This is important for the young baby’s developing immune system.

 It is Ok for you to take medicine to prevent or treat the flu while you are breastfeeding.

If my baby is sick, is it okay to breastfeed?

Yes. One of the best things you can do for your sick baby is keep breastfeeding. Do not stop breastfeeding – Give your baby many chances to breastfeed throughout the illness. Breast milk is better than anything else because it help protect your baby’s immune system. Call your doctor if your baby is too sick to breastfeed.

Is it ok to breastfeed my baby if I am sick?

If you are sick and there is no one else to care for your baby, wear a facemask, if available and cover your mouth and noise with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If possible, ask for help from someone who is not sick to feed and care for your baby. You can use a breast pump to provide expressed breast milk for the care giver to feed your baby. Ideally, babies less than 6 months of age should get their feedings from breast milk.

Reference:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/infantfeeding.htm  (Accessed August 31st 2009)