What you need to know
- Influenza “Flu” season is September through April
- The risks associated with influenza are increased for both pregnant patients and their newborns
- Vaccination allows for the benefit of passive immunity for newborns and to those who breastfeed
Recommendations
- All pregnant patients should receive annual influenza vaccine as soon as it is available
- Patients who are not vaccinated during pregnancy should consider vaccination postpartum as their infants can still benefit from passive immunity via breastfeeding
- Antiviral treatment should be initiated within 48 hours of symptom onset for all pregnant individuals with suspected influenza
Safety
- Influenza vaccination during pregnancy has been demonstrated repeatedly in large studies to safely protect pregnant people and their newborns against influenza illness and complications
- The influenza vaccine can be safely administered at the same time as other vaccines recommended in pregnancy (Tdap, RSV, COVID-19)
For more information: “Influenza in Pregnancy: Prevention and Treatment” ACOG Practice Advisory, August 2025
Author
Alexandra Otto, MD, FACOG
Alex Otto, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified OB/GYN who joined Premier OB-GYN – which has locations in Maitland, Oviedo, Lake Mary and Winter Park, Florida – in 2024. Born and raised in Orlando, Dr. Otto fulfilled her dream of returning home to serve the community that shaped her. She has a passion for women’s health and strives to provide exceptional medical care throughout all stages of life.
Dr. Otto obtained a Bachelor of Science in biology from Georgia Southern University, where she was an NCAA student-athlete. She attended medical school at Ross University School of Medicine and completed her OB/GYN residency at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia. Her interests include minimally invasive surgery, obstetrical care, mental health, and the female athlete.
Dr. Otto is married to her husband, Nate, and has a daughter, Skylar, who is the light of her life! In her free time, Dr. Otto can be found at a local coffee shop, working out, or spending time with family in New Smyrna Beach.
