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Pregnant Women at Higher Risk for H1N1 Virus
The Centers for Disease Control anticipate there will be more cases and hospitalizations associated with the H1N1 virus in the United States during this influenza season. The H1N1 virus combined with regular seasonal influenza viruses can increase the likelihood of significant illness requiring hospitalization during this influenza season.
Pregnant women are at a higher risk of serious illness than any other population of people. During pregnancy, a woman's immune system is weakened in order for her body to not reject the fetus. During that time, pregnant women are more susceptible to viruses.
The most important factor in ensuring a baby's health is protecting the mother's health. The providers at Country Midwife strongly recommend all pregnant women carefully consider the benefits and risks of being vaccinated against H1N1 and make an informed choice about receiving it or not.
The Centers for Disease Control recommend that all health care workers be vaccinated. Our midwives are researching the benefits and risks of taking the H1N1 vaccine ourselves and we will be making an informed decision about receiving the vaccine and other measures we can take to prevent the spread of illness.
Symptoms of the H1N1 virus are very similar to the seasonal flu symptoms. They include: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.
In order to protect yourself and your family from the H1N1 virus, take some everyday precautions in preventing the spread of germs. Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose. Consider wearing cotton gloves in public and carrying disposable masks in your bag in case you find yourself in places where people are displaying symptoms of illness. These simple measures can prevent the spread of germs and protect your health.
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