Management of influenza in pregnancy.

Influenza is a common viral infection during pregnancy associated with increased adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Pregnant women represent a unique population with increased risk for influenza morbidity and mortality. Annual immunization is an effective strategy for prevention of influenza. Despite the universal recommendations for influenza vaccination during pregnancy, 50% or less of pregnant U.S. women on average receive the seasonal vaccine annually. Prompt recognition and treatment of infection or postexposure prophylaxis with recommended antiviral medications may prevent complications in both mother and fetus. We review the epidemiology and management of influenza infection in pregnancy. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.