AMA: Flu Shots Encouraged for Everyone Over Six Months

IN A NUTSHELL:

• CDC: Majority of pregnant women not vaccinated
• Anyone older than 6 months encouraged to get vaccine

As the flu season begins, the American Medical Association (AMA) is encouraging everyone older than six months, especially pregnant women, to get a flu shot.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently estimated that the vast majority of pregnant women in the U.S. are not vaccinated against the flu and whooping cough. Officials with the AMA said that it is vitally important that all pregnant women get the flu and Tdap vaccines this season.

“The flu vaccine is particularly effective in reducing flu illness, doctor’s visits, missed work and school, and at preventing flu-related hospitalizations and deaths. It’s also a proven way to significantly reduce a child’s risk of influenza-associated death,” said Patrice A. Harris, AMA President.

The AMA has long-supported eliminating all non-medical exemptions from required childhood vaccines The AMA also urges physicians to encourage their pregnant patients to get the flu vaccine.

Pregnant women can receive the flu vaccine during any trimester. However, they should receive the Tdap vaccine early in the third trimester to protect them against flu and whooping cough.