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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), scientists expect the H1N1 flu and seasonal flu to cause more sickness this season than a regular flu season. The flu vaccine is one of the most important tools for preventing it, but many people are skeptical about the new H1N1 vaccine, and some pregnant women may wonder whether or not they should get vaccinated.

"The CDC is recommending that anyone who is pregnant should receive the H1N1 vaccination," says Blount Memorial Hospital infection preventionist Ann Henry. In fact, the CDC says it is "very important" for pregnant women to get both the seasonal and H1N1 vaccines to fully protect mother and baby during the flu season. According to the CDC, "The seasonal flu shot has been given to millions of pregnant women over many years. Flu shots have not been shown to cause harm to pregnant women or their babies. The 2009 H1N1 flu shot is made in the same way and in the same places as the seasonal flu shot."

Henry adds that anyone who lives with or cares for infants younger than 6 months of age also should receive both vaccines, for the infants' protection. This includes expectant mothers and any family members who will be taking care of a child during his or her first 6 months of life.

Pregnant women and children between the ages of 6 months and 2 years can receive the H1N1 vaccine injection, Henry says. "Children and adults between the ages of 2 and 49 can receive the nasal mist or the injection, depending on whether they have certain underlying illnesses." Like the seasonal vaccine, H1N1 vaccine side effects are possible but are normally mild.

Henry says that if you are pregnant and have flu symptoms, or have been in close contact with someone who has the flu, call your doctor right away. According to the CDC, pregnant women who get sick with 2009 H1N1 can have serious health problems. "They can get sicker than other people who get 2009 H1N1 flu. Some pregnant women sick with 2009 H1N1 have had early labor and severe pneumonia. Some have died. If you are pregnant and have symptoms of the flu, take it very seriously. Call your doctor right away for advice."

Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. Henry reminds that not all people with the flu will have a fever.

If you are pregnant and have close contact with someone who has H1N1 flu, talk to your doctor immediately. You might need to take medicine to reduce your chances of getting the flu.

The CDC also recommends that you take steps to help prevent the spread of germs, including washing your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand rub can be used. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and try to avoid close contact with sick people.

The Women's Health column is provided by the staff and associates of Blount Memorial Hospital. It appears every Sunday in Women's Times. Call 983-7211.