The benefits of influenza vaccine in pregnancy for the fetus and the infant younger than six months of age

Question 1

Why are influenza vaccines not licensed or recommended for infants <6mo?

Answer 1

Vaccine effectiveness is unclear because their immune response is variable

Question 2

What is cocooning?

Answer 2

Immunization of postpartum women and an infant’s household contacts
Moderately effective but not cost effective

Question 3

What is the effectiveness of immunizing pregnant women to prevent influenza in infants <6mo?

Answer 3

Clinically effective, safe, and cost effective

Question 4

What are the teratogenic effects of influenza in the first trimester?

Answer 4

1. Neural tube defects
2. Hydrocephaly
3. Congenital heart defects (i.e. aortic valve atresia or stenosis, VSD)
4. Cleft lip
5. Digestive system defects
6. Limb reduction defects

Question 5

What are the recommended strategies to prevent influenza in infants <6mo?

Answer 5

1. Immunization with TIV in second and third trimester of pregnant women
2. Hand hygiene
3. Avoid contact with infected people