Flu shots and expectant moms

It's flu shot day here at the big 1-3. The station provides flu shots for those who want them .. free of charge. It's a nice perk.

Yes, I'll be rolling up my sleeve - after all - I spend my days working on stories in hospitals and doctors offices.

But getting a flu shot is a good bit of preventive medicine for many of us - including pregnant women.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ( ACOG) is out with reminder today for all women who are pregnant to get a flu shot. ACOG says it's an essential part of prenatal care providing protection, not only to mom, but the baby - that's because flu fighting antibodies can be developed by the fetus - and since babies younger than 6 months can't be vaccinated against flu, this confers protection on them.

ACOG also says, pregnant women and those breastfeeding can safely take the shot . but NOT flu mist .. the inhaled vaccine.

And a reminder: the CDC says all teens and adults be vaccinated against flu .. especially folks older than 50, younger than 5, anyone with a chronic illness, their caregivers and all health care workers.

Flu season is already underway and it lasts through May. It takes about 2 weeks after the shot to be protected. And despite thoughts to the contrary - you can't get flu from the shot as it is not a live virus.

carry on ..