Health Tip: If You Get the Flu While Pregnant

(HealthDay News) -- The flu may be dangerous enough, but it's even more of a threat for women who are pregnant.

All women should get the annual flu vaccine, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises.

If you do develop the flu while pregnant, the CDC suggests:

• Begin treatment as soon as possible. Antiviral drugs work best when started within 48 hours of symptoms.
• Antiviral drugs may diminish symptoms, make you feel better faster and help prevent serious complications for you and baby.
• Your doctor may suggest taking oral oseltamivir, which has been studied thoroughly.
• Fever during pregnancy has been linked to increased risk of birth defects. So if you develop a fever, contact your doctor immediately.