During the influenza A-H1N1 pandemic, only about 16% of pregnant women were vaccinated against the virus, despite their higher expected mortality risk. According to the official data, five pregnant women died. ⋯ The author discusses the causes that deterred pregnant women from being vaccinated. The main problem seems to be that some physicians were under-informed and were reluctant to take responsibility.
Budapest/Foundation for the Community Control of Hereditary Diseases; H-1026 Budapest, Törökvész lejto 32. czeizel@interware.hu
Lege Artis Med. 2011 Feb 1;21(2):89-95.
AbstractDuring the influenza A-H1N1 pandemic, only about 16% of pregnant women were vaccinated against the virus, despite their higher expected mortality risk. According to the official data, five pregnant women died. In addition, the high fever that occurs in influenza increases the risk of some congenital abnormalities. The vaccine used in Hungary is not associated with severe complications in pregnant women and their fetuses, therefore, it can be administered during any stage of pregnancy. The author discusses the causes that deterred pregnant women from being vaccinated. The main problem seems to be that some physicians were under-informed and were reluctant to take responsibility.