Swine Flu Risks for Pregnant Women

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is warning that while pregnant women are not more likely to catch the swine flu (H1N1 virus), they have a greater risk of developing complications if they do catch it. Those complications can include pneumonia and severe respiratory distress as well as early delivery or miscarriage.

The PHAC urges pregnant women to

• be especially vigilant in practicing basic infection control
• avoid large crowds, although you should continue going to work, community events and worship services
• know how to recognize the symptoms of swine flu
• speak to a medical professional if you develop flu symptoms
• get medical care if the symptoms worsen

Human swine flu can be treated with two antiviral drugs - oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) - and Canada has enough doses on hand for those who need them. Both drugs are safe for pregnant women. The PHAC says "recent scientific evidence suggests Tamiflu may be more effective."

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