Newborns can be protected against serious complications from the flu if their mother receives the flu vaccine during pregnancy. In addition, the flu vaccine reduces the risk that the pregnant woman herself will become seriously ill from the flu or be hospitalized as a result.
Unfortunately, we cannot vaccinate newborns against the flu ourselves; they are too young for that. However, the mother can be vaccinated. The mother then produces antibodies that she passes on to the baby. This way, the baby is protected during the first few weeks after birth. The baby can still get the flu, but the risk is much lower. If the baby does get the flu, the symptoms are often less severe.
On September 20, 2021, the Health Council therefore recommended offering a flu shot to all pregnant women starting at 22 weeks of gestation. Previously, this recommendation applied only to pregnant women with underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes or heart and lung diseases).
The State Secretary for Health, Welfare, and Sports has announced that some pregnant women will be eligible to receive a free flu shot in 2021. They may schedule an appointment with their primary care physician between October 1 and November 1, 2021.
For more information, visit The Flu Shot for Pregnant Women | RIVM
